An Indian national, Aman Malik, has been sentenced to three years in jail in Kenya after pleading guilty to doping charges. The ruling was delivered by the Magistrate’s Court at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) law courts.
Malik, 19, faced four charges linked to the possession and use of prohibited substances at a training camp in Iten.
Senior Principal Magistrate Njeri Thuku ordered that he serve 12 months for the first charge if he defaults on paying a Sh1 million fine.
The second, third, and fourth charges each carry three-year sentences. The magistrate clarified that the sentences would run concurrently, meaning Malik will serve three years in total.
Hon. Njeri said the sentence aims to protect Kenya’s heritage and pride, noting the role athletics play in uniting the country and giving it recognition internationally.
“Courts are called to protect society. Sometimes, they are the last hope for the populace that is ravaged by forces outside it,” she said.
Malik will be repatriated to India after serving his sentence. The magistrate also directed that the prohibited items presented in court by the Anti-Doping Authority of Kenya (ADAK) be destroyed by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board after 14 days if no appeal is filed.
Malik was arrested on May 5, 2025, at Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet, during a multi-agency operation involving ADAK and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Authorities recovered Human Growth Hormone (HGH), Melodonium, Mannitol, unused IV bags, and syringes, raising suspicions of involvement in a doping syndicate.
ADAK welcomed the ruling, calling it a significant victory in the fight against doping.
The authority continues to enforce regulations to ensure athletes compete fairly and that Kenya maintains a clean reputation in international sports.
