Interpol launches global probe into doping scam

LYON, France (AVRUPA TIMES SPORT) - The world police body (Interpol) has announced Monday it is to coordinate a global probe, led by France, into alleged international doping corruption scam following a report by an independent commission established by the World Anti-Doping Agency, or WADA. The move "follows today’s publication of a report by an Independent Commission established by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) investigating a number of individuals, including former officials of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF)," said the international police agency in a statement.

In a damning 323-page report, the WADA commission, which launched an investigation into doping allegations aired on German television in December 2014,  has directly accused the Russian government of complicity in the widespread doping and cover-ups exposed.

The commission recommended that the IAFF to ban Russia's athletics federation from athletics -- including the 2016 Rio Olympic Games -- until the country cleans up its act on doping.

The response came from Sebastian Coe, the IAAF president, who said he "has taken the urgent step of seeking approval from his fellow IAAF Council Members to consider sanctions against the Russian Athletics Federation (ARAF)."

"The IC has identified systemic failures within the IAAF and Russia that prevent or diminish the possibility of an effective anti-doping program," the IC's report said.

"This is a deeply shocking report and very saddening for the world of sport and welcomes the clear commitment expressed by IAAF to do 'whatever it takes to protect the clean athletes and rebuild trust in our sport,'" IOC said in a statement.

Interpol said: "France’s national anti-corruption department of the central directorate of judicial police will launch the inquiry, headed by French investigative magistrate Renaud Van Ruymbeke."

 "As part of the inquiry, French police last week raided premises belonging to individuals and companies," Interpol added.

The WADA commission will publish the full and final version of its report by the end of 2015 depending on the progression and outcome of the investigation, says the world police body.