The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) successfully apprehended a suspect attempting to smuggle a prohibited consignment of medicaments into the country.
The suspect, now in custody, was intercepted at 8:30 am on 13th July 2023, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, after she tried to deceive officers stationed at the airport scanning area.
The seized medicament included 399 boxes of Levosalbutamol, 250 boxes of Carvedilol, and 150 boxes of Triamcinolone Acetonide injections.
The discovery is particularly significant as Kenyan athletes have recently faced sanctions and warnings due to traces of Triamcinolone Acetonide found in their samples.
This substance is classified as prohibited under the 2023 WADA Prohibited List, specifically under category S9: Glucocorticoids. It is banned during competitions when administered through specific routes.
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The suspect, who was unable to produce any permits or licenses for the prohibited substances, is scheduled to be arraigned before the court on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, ongoing investigations aim to uncover more details regarding the illegal operation.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Arts, and Sports of the Government of Kenya maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards doping in sports.
ADAK, determined in its fight against doping, continues to gather intelligence and conduct thorough investigations into suspected doping activities throughout the country.
The agency said it is steadfast in fulfilling its mandate, affirming its commitment to enforcing the World Anti-Doping Code and ADAK Anti-Doping Rules to curb the menace of doping in sports.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Sarah I. Shibutse, the Chief Executive Officer of ADAK, asserted, "Enforcement of the World Anti-Doping Code and ADAK Anti-Doping Rules shall continue, and the doping menace shall be defeated."
As the case progresses, the authorities remain dedicated to upholding the integrity of sports in Kenya and ensuring fair play among athletes.
The interception of this illegal medicament consignment marks a significant step in the ongoing battle against doping, emphasizing Kenya's commitment to maintaining a clean and drug-free sporting environment.