Hundreds Arrested in Europe's Biggest Operation on Steroids

At least 234 individuals were arrested in Biggest Steroid Bust in Europe's History.

The bust is allegedly being termed as one of the biggest in the World so far. An international undercover investigation led to arrests of 234 Individuals in Europe. Authorities also claim of dismantling 17 Crime Syndicates.

August 5, 2019: According to authorities massive police raids across the Europe led to seizure of 24 Tons of raw Steroid Powder, 234 arrests, closure of approximately 9 underground steroid production labs and dismantling of more than 17 criminal gangs. This operation involved officers from the World Anti-Doping Agency ("WADA"), Europe's Police Agency ("Europol"), Greek and Italian Police.

The officials from WADA became suspicious after testing several athletes at different sports event. The testing was done by taking urine and blood samples. However, It is unclear, when and where these samples were taken. According to officials more than 839 related cases have been registered and are being investigated at the moment. The investigation is taking place against more than 1000 individuals across the world. These individuals are allegedly said to be involved in production, use and transportation of steroids.

"This is the sort of multi-party collaboration that produces real results and can make a significant impact on the availability of counterfeit and illegal drugs used by some athletes globally," said Gunther Younger, intelligence director at WADA.

It appears that Government's across the Europe have taken a more strict stance against these individuals and groups.

"Over the last 20 years, the worldwide trade in anabolic substances has increased significantly," Europol said.

As seen earlier several Russian athletes were also banned after being found to have injected the said compounds. The issue which became famous by the name of Russian Doping Scandal.

"So many of the busts that have happened in the sports world for doping recently have only been possible because police have wiretapping ability and other investigative powers that normal anti-doping agencies and sports organizations don't have," said Max Cobb, president and CEO of the US Biathlon Association.

"We would like to congratulate all member states and other organizations that contributed to this successful operation," said WADA's Gunther Younger.