Nigerian weightlifter Amlaha had won a gold in the 53 kg category. (Source: AP)

Matsa Santoshi’s bronze in women’s

53kg weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games may be upgraded to silver after Nigerian gold winner Chika Amalaha’s A dope

sample returned positive for a banned substance here today.

Another Indian Swati Singh, who finished fourth in the

competition, could also move a place up for the bronze.

Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive Mike Hooper

today announced at the daily media briefing that Amalaha has

been suspended from the Games till the results of her B

sample comes out.

“She provided a positive A sample after she won her gold

in the 53kg category. We are following the correct procedures

at this time and whilst that is going ahead she will be

suspended,” Hooper said.

“We shouldn’t presume anything just yet, once she has

provided a B sample that is when we can decide on the

re-awarding of medals and appropriate actions.”

Amalaha’s case is the first one relating to dope offence

in the Glasgow Games.

“Our robust anti-doping system is in place and we want to

send a message to those that decide to cheat that they will be

caught,” he said.

On weightlifting’s continuance at the Commonwealth Games,

Hooper said, “Weightlifting is a core sport to this

programme. We would not remove it easily.” PTI PDS BS

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