An Indian national has been jailed for three years in Kenya after pleading guilty to doping-related offences in a case that underscores the country’s tough stance against drug cheats.
Aman Malik, 19, was sentenced by the Magistrate’s Court at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after admitting to four charges linked to the possession and use of prohibited substances at a training camp in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet.
Senior Principal Magistrate Njeri Thuku ruled that Malik serve 12 months for the first charge if he defaults on paying a Sh1 million fine. The second, third, and fourth charges each attracted three-year sentences. However, the magistrate clarified the terms would run concurrently, leaving Malik with a total of three years behind bars.
“The courts are called to protect society. Sometimes, they are the last hope for the populace that is ravaged by forces outside it,” she said, stressing the importance of safeguarding Kenya’s athletics heritage and global reputation.
Malik was arrested on May 5 during a multi-agency sting involving the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. Authorities recovered Human Growth Hormone, Melodonium, Mannitol, unused IV bags, and syringes.
The magistrate further directed that the seized substances be destroyed by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board after 14 days if no appeal is filed. Malik will be deported to India once he completes his sentence.
ADAK hailed the judgment as a milestone in its mission to protect clean athletes and preserve the integrity of Kenyan athletics.
