Weightlifting coach arrested over banned performance-enhancing drugs
A weightlifting coach has been arrested in the Greater Athens region on suspicion of supplying banned performance-enhancing substances to athletes, including at least one minor, Greek police announced on Friday.
The 58-year-old Greek national was taken into custody on Thursday following a months-long investigation conducted in cooperation with national anti-doping and health authorities.
State broadcaster ERT identified the suspect as Odysseas Dimas, the brother of former Olympic weightlifting champion Pyrros Dimas. There is no indication that Pyrros Dimas was involved in the investigation.
ERT also reported that the minor allegedly involved in the case was the suspect's son.
Investigation uncovered alleged doping practices
According to the police statement, the coach is suspected of supplying athletes with prohibited substances since at least April 2024.
Investigators established that, in at least one case, an underage athlete had allegedly been given an illegal performance-enhancing substance.
Authorities said both the coach and the young athlete have been barred from future participation in weightlifting competitions.
Banned substances seized in raids
During searches of the suspect's home and several sports facilities linked to him, police seized large quantities of prohibited substances.
Authorities warned that the confiscated products pose serious health risks to those who use them.
The investigation was carried out with the assistance of specialist anti-doping and health agencies as authorities seek to establish the full extent of the alleged activities.
