In a significant development, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), an international body responsible for upholding the integrity of athletics, has issued a 10-year ban to Kenyan athlete Titus Ekiru following allegations of doping. AIU's investigation revealed that Ekiru had colluded with a doctor at a Kenyan hospital to falsify medical records in an attempt to deceive anti-doping authorities.

According to the official communique from AIU, Titus Ekiru, hailing from Kenya, has been banned for a period of 10 years, starting from June 28, 2022, due to the Presence of Prohibited Substances (Triamcinolone Acetonide and its metabolite, Pethidine and its metabolite), as well as for Tampering with evidence.

AIU further disclosed that Ekiru had tested positive for prohibited substances during two international races that he had won, namely, the Generali Milano Marathon on May 16, 2021, and the Abu Dhabi Marathon on November 26, 2021. As a result of this ban, his victories in these races have been nullified, and he is required to return any prizes and earnings obtained from these events.

The ban will remain in effect until June 27, 2032, starting from the date of Ekiru's suspension on June 28, 2022. This case serves as a stern reminder of the consequences athletes may face when involved in doping activities, highlighting the continued efforts to maintain the integrity of the sport.