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On Tuesday, May 7, the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) seized an illegal shipment of drugs, which were intended to be used by athletes in Iten, Kenya.
An Indian international was arrested with the cache following a joint operation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and anti-doping officials.
“The raid was conducted following actionable intelligence indicating possible involvement in activities related to the distribution and use of the prohibited performance-enhancing substances.
“The report was booked at Iten Police Station. Investigations are ongoing to establish the full scope of the activities, including potential networks, clients, and any violations of Kenya Anti-Doping Law and International Anti-Doping policies, rules and regulations,” ADAK said in a statement.
The bounty included human growth hormone (HGH), meldonium, and mannitol, which athletes from Kenya often test positive for these particular drugs.
“The presence of intravenous (IV) paraphernalia, including IV bags, syringes, and needles — both used and unused — further pointed to possible doping practices.”
“Iten town is recognized by athletes worldwide as a training hub for elite long-distance runners. The town hosts athletes from various countries. ADAK, therefore, is greatly concerned with the presence and circulation of prohibited substances within the town. Prohibited substances are not only illegal in sports but also a danger to athletes’ health,” added the anti-doping agency.
Several hundred Kenyan athletes have been handed sanctions since the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
“ADAK remains unrelenting in the fight against doping in sport and continues to gather intelligence and conduct investigations on suspected doping activities around the country. The Agency reiterates its commitment to discharging its mandate. Enforcement of the World Anti-Doping Code and ADAK Anti-Doping Rules shall continue, and the doping menace shall be defeated.”
