Spanish newspaper El Pais has reported that 11 people have been arrested by the Guardia Civil in connection with a new doping network. The arrests included former Kelme team doctor Walter Viru, who owns a pharmacy in Montserrat (Valencia). Viru is a former colleague of doctor Eufemiano Fuentes, the central figure in the Operación Puerto scandal.
The operation involved collaboration between Spanish and French authorities.
Searches were carried out in several locations that included clinics, pharmacies and homes, most notably the residence of Spanish race walker Francisco Javier Fernandez and Viru. Fernadez won the silver medal in the 2004 Olympics and two European Championships (2002,2005).
Authorities reportedly found EPO and growth hormones in Barcelona, Granada, Murcia and Valencia, and seized medical records of dozens of athletes.
This latest development highlights the efforts being made between the different authorities to combat doping in sport.