Table of Contents
- Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) pinned down an Indian national in Iten
- The suspect had a consignment of these banned performance-enhancing substances
- ADAK confirmed that the operation was carried out on Monday
Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) pinned down an Indian national in Iten while in possession of banned doping substances.
ADAK said that the suspect had a consignment of these banned substances which he planned to sell to athletes training in the area.
The Monday arrest was in collaboration with sleuths drawn from Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
In a statement released on Monday, ADAK confirmed that the operation was carried out on Monday in conjunction with detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Reports indicate that ADAK was acting on intelligence reports. The suspect was booked at Iten Police Station, investigations into his dealings and network in the area come under scrutiny.
Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya Nab Indian Doping Peddler
The doping agency – Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya – reported that they had intelligence reports about the planned business by the Indian national.
ADAK indicated that the suspect had an assortment of banned substances that enhance performance among athletes.
The agency’s acting CEO Peninah Wahome said they had credible reports of the suspect’s motive to distribute these performance-enhancing drugs substances to athletes in Iten.
“The raid was conducted following actionable intelligence indicating possible involvement in activities related to the distribution and use of the prohibited performance-enhancing substances,” read part of her statement.
What was Recovered
DCI officers together with a team from the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya carried out a search at the suspect’s premises in Iten.
They recovered an assortment of performance-enhancing drugs blacklisted by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code.
Among the banned substances recovered were meldonium, mannitol and human growth hormone (HGH).
“The raid, which was carried out at the suspects’ premises, led to the discovery and seizure of a range of prohibited substances banned under the WADA Code.
“Among the items recovered were human growth hormone (HGH), meldonium, and mannitol, substances commonly associated with performance enhancement and prohibited in competitive sports,” Wahome added.
The detectives and ADAK officials also recovered syringes, IV bags indicating a possibility of some athletes doping.
“The presence of intravenous (IV) paraphernalia, including IV bags, syringes, and needles — both used and unused — further pointed to possible doping practices,” the acting ADAK CEO stated.
Worry Over Doping
Following this incident, the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya expressed concern over doping in Kenya’s most glorified high-altitude training area.
ADAK said doping incidences in the area will tarnish its reputation as world-class training zone for long-distance runners.
“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.”
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe with Kenya Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. Photo/SportPesa Blog
The suspect was booked at Iten police station as investigations continue to unravel the scale of the operation — including potential distribution networks, clientele and breaches of both national and international anti-doping laws.
The agency concluded by reiterating its unwavering commitment to clean sport, warning athletes against the health dangers and legal consequences of using banned substances.
“Prohibited substances are not only illegal in sports but also a danger to athletes’ health. 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 in discharging its mandate. Enforcement of the WADA Code and ADAK Anti-Doping Rules shall continue, and the doping menace shall be defeated,” ADAK said.
Why is Iten Popular Among Athletes?
Iten is a popular training ground for global athletes due to its high altitude, which helps in building endurance. Sitting at 2,400m (7,900 ft), runners training here have improved oxygen efficiency due to an increase in red blood cell count.
Moreover, the climate is always cool throughout the year.
