Nairobi, Oct 25 (IANS): Three more Kenyans have failed doping tests and have been handed suspensions by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

African Youth Games 800m silver medalist Angela Munguti has received a charge by AIU after her sample returned positive with the presence of a prohibited substance (norandrosterone) in it, reports Xinhua news agency.

She has the right to challenge the decision and offer a B sample for testing before a final ruling is passed out on her. She faces a four-year absence from the sport should her appeal fail at the tribunal.

Another athlete from Kenya who will also be sweating on the outcome of his sample will be Philip Kimutai, who has been given a notice of allegation after his sample had the presence of prohibited testosterone.

"A provisional suspension is issued out when an athlete is suspended temporarily from participating in any competition or activity in athletics prior to a final decision at a hearing conducted under the IAAF Anti-Doping Rules or the Integrity Code of Conduct," said the AIU in a statement.

There will also be a suspension for Vincent Yator, who survived a nasty accident to finish third at Honolulu Marathon last year. His sample had the presence of prohibited substances testosterone, prednisone and prednisolone.

The trio's suspension now brings to 15 the number of Kenyan elite athletes that AIU has either suspended or banned for doping offences this year.

Others include African 10,000m champion Joyce Chepkirui, 2017 Tokyo Marathon champion Sarah Chepchirchir, World Half Marathon record holder Abraham Kiptum and former world 1,500m champion Asbel Kiprop and Olympic champion Jemimah Sumgong.