Finnish authorities complete investigation into doping crime involving man from Savonlinna
Finnish customs authorities have completed an investigation lasting one and a half years into a serious doping-related crime. A man in his 30s from Savonlinna imported doping substances and their precursors from China into Finland. The term “precursor” refers to chemicals used in drug manufacturing, some of which can also be used as pharmaceuticals.
During the investigation, authorities seized approximately 1,000 vials of doping substances. The suspect manufactured, bottled, and distributed these illicit substances throughout Finland. The case began when the primary suspect crashed his vehicle into a barrier in Rauma in February 2023. After the accident, he attempted to hide the doping materials in a forest, but authorities discovered and confiscated the substances at the scene.
In total, six individuals across Finland are considered suspects, with connections to Savonlinna, Jyväskylä, Turku, Juva, Valkeakoski, and the United States. Other suspects are believed to have acquired, sold, and disseminated the doping substances.
The case is now moving to the prosecution office in Western Finland for further legal action. Notably, this incident is separate from a previous doping crime network linked to the same Savonlinna man, which is currently being processed in the South Savo District Court, with a verdict expected in the autumn.