FIVE people have been arrested on suspicion of drink spiking after a woman became unwell in the city centre.

A 19-year-old woman was assisted by nightclub staff after becoming unwell on a night out in West Street in the early hours of October 2.

Officers patrolling the area quickly attended, launched an investigation and worked with the licensed venue to gather evidence.

The woman was taken to hospital for treatment.

Three men from Hampshire, two aged 35 and one aged 27, and a 26-year-old man from Worthing were arrested on suspicion of administering poison with intent to injure or aggrieve.

All four men were released on conditional bail.

A fifth man, aged 37 from Hampshire, was also arrested. He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Detective Sergeant Sharon Rintoul said: “The speed at which we were able to make these arrests is not only testament to the swift work of bar staff and our officers, but a further reminder of the importance of promptly reporting potential spiking incidents.”

Police have urged anyone who has been the victim of a spiking, or if somebody you know has been a victim of a spiking, to report it immediately to bar staff, a police officer or call 999, so evidence can be gathered as quickly as possible.