Appeal over male sex assaults

The attacks are said to have happened in the capital

Police in Edinburgh say they understand two men may have been sexually assaulted after they had their drinks spiked with the so-called date-rape drug, GHB.

One attack was formally reported and another informally reported via gay helplines.

The drug, which can be dissolved in drink, is undetectable by taste, smell or appearance, and is suspected of being used to spike targets' drinks.

Also known as liquid Ecstasy, it can eventually leave the victim unconscious and with such severe memory loss they do not know what has happened to them.

Lothian and Borders Police confirmed that two reports had been received through the force's remote reporting system.

Drinks spiked

It allows people to report crimes to detectives through a third party - usually a support group worker - rather than contact officers directly.

But the police added that no investigation could be made into the incidents unless formal complaints are made.

Chief Inspector Bob Licznerski appealed for victims to come forward.

He said: "The information indicates that unaccompanied males, perceived to be gay, are being targeted and their drinks spiked, prior to being subjected to serious sexual assaults.

"There are poor descriptions at this stage, but I would ask that victims or witnesses come forward either formally to a police station, or through the remote reporting system or by contacting the gay liaison officer at the police headquarters."