Residents are being urged to stay alert and prioritise their safety following reports of alleged drink spiking incidents in local communities.

According to community warnings, criminals are reportedly targeting mostly women, although there have also been isolated cases involving male victims.

It is alleged that in some incidents, women were drugged and sexually assaulted, while male victims were allegedly drugged and robbed of valuables, including cellphones, wallets, laptops and vehicles.

Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant when attending social events, restaurants, taverns or clubs. Safety precautions include never accepting drinks from strangers, never leaving drinks unattended and always watching drinks being prepared or opened.

Residents are also advised to avoid going out alone, stay close to trusted friends, share live locations with family or friends and use trusted transport services when travelling at night.

People are further encouraged to trust their instincts and leave situations that feel unsafe.

Anyone who suspects their drink may have been spiked should seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to SAPS.

Parents are also being encouraged to speak openly with young people about the dangers linked to drink spiking and unsafe social situations.