ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) The secretary general of the Ethiopian track and field federation says three of the country's athletes have been suspended from competition while authorities investigate them for doping.
Bililign Mekoya says another three are also under investigation, although they haven't been formally suspended. Bililign and other track officials did not give the names of the athletes, citing ongoing investigations.
Speaking at an anti-doping awareness event alongside Bililign, national athletics team doctor Ayalew Tilhaun says Ethiopians have recently tested positive for steroids, testosterone, the stimulant ephedrine, and the diuretic furosemide, among other banned substances.
Again, Ayalew wouldn't identify the athletes who have allegedly failed doping tests because investigations are ongoing.
Athletics is facing doping problems in Ethiopia following major scandals in Russia and Kenya.
