Burgas, Bulgaria – May 15, 2025 — Police in Burgas detained three drivers in separate incidents over the past few days for operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, raising renewed concerns about road safety in the city.
The most serious incident occurred in the early hours of May 13. At approximately 4:45 a.m., officers from the Fifth Regional Department stopped a Peugeot 306 without license plates on “24th Black Sea Infantry Regiment” Street near block 11 in the “Lazur” residential complex. The vehicle was being driven by a 57-year-old man from Burgas.
Upon inspection, officers detected that the driver was under the influence of alcohol, registering a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 1.91 per mille—a level considered dangerously above the legal limit.
The man refused to provide a blood sample for further chemical analysis. He was taken into custody for up to 24 hours, and the vehicle, which lacked registration plates, was seized according to legal procedures. Authorities have launched a fast-tracked investigation into the case.
Later that same day, a second incident was reported. At around 9:15 p.m., police officers from the Fourth Regional Department conducted a routine check near block 39 in the Meden Rudnik residential area.
They stopped an Audi A5 with Burgas registration, driven by a 53-year-old local man. The driver was also found to be intoxicated, with a BAC of 1.29 per mille. He was similarly detained for up to 24 hours, and a speedy pre-trial investigation has been initiated.
The third case involved not alcohol but narcotics. On May 12 at approximately 11:45 a.m., officers from the First Regional Department pulled over a Mercedes E 270 CDI on St. St. Kiril and Metodiy Street.
The car, registered in Burgas, was driven by a 37-year-old man who, according to initial police testing, had used both cannabis and methamphetamine.
As with the earlier cases, the driver refused to provide a blood sample for further analysis. He was detained, and his vehicle was seized pending further legal proceedings.
Police have confirmed that all three drivers were detained for the maximum period of 24 hours allowed under current procedures while investigations are underway.
Each case is being handled through an expedited investigative process, which could result in swift prosecution if charges are confirmed. Authorities in Burgas have intensified road checks in response to a recent surge in incidents involving impaired drivers.
“We are increasing our patrols and inspections to protect the public from reckless behavior behind the wheel,” a spokesperson from the Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior said.
Police urge citizens to report any suspicious driving behavior and remind drivers of the serious legal and safety consequences of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
The recent spate of arrests serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving and underscores the need for continued vigilance on Burgas’ roads.