China to probe WADA allegation

File Photo: Director General of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) David Howman (L) watches on as President of WADA John Fahey speaks during a World Anti Doping Agency Briefing ahead of the 2012 London Olympic Games at the Main Press Centre on July 25, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Beijing, Feb 19 (IANS) China has planned to investigate an allegation that “99 percent of illegal substances” come from China but remains doubtful of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) statistics, a Chinese official said Tuesday.

China’s move came as a result of a striking comment from WADA director general David Howman, who told reporters that “99 percent of the raw materials that are used through the Internet to make up in your kitchen or your backyard laboratory are emanating from China”, reports Xinhua.

Howman’s remarks immediately drew great attention from the State General Administration of Sport, the government organisation that runs sports in China and provides financial support for the country’s anti-doping drive.

“We are shocked at Mr. Howman’s comment. We are wondering where this 99 percent came from and what is his evidence. We have asked for a more detailed explanation from WADA,” said China’s anti-doping chief Jiang Zhixue.

Jiang admitted to problems in China’s anti-doping fight.

“There are problems, such as illegal sale of banned drugs through the Internet. So we have decided to launch an investigation into WADA’s allegation,” he said.

Jiang said the probe needs to be a coordinated effort between multiple government departments like it was done ahead of the 2008 Beijing Games, when a number of workshops that illegally produced materials were shut down and supervision and control of drug sales were stepped up.