Sveti Vlas, Bulgaria – June 18, 2025 — A 25-year-old Ukrainian national residing in Sveti Vlas under temporary protection has been detained by Bulgarian police after authorities discovered 20 grams of marijuana and an electronic scale during a search of his residence.
The incident, which took place on Sunday, June 16, has raised concerns over potential drug distribution activities in the popular Black Sea resort area.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Interior’s Burgas Directorate, officers from the Nessebar Regional Police conducted a targeted search at a private residence in Sveti Vlas at approximately 3:35 p.m.
The operation was carried out as part of a broader law enforcement initiative focused on drug-related offenses in the coastal region. During the search, officers found a quantity of dried green plant material later confirmed to be cannabis.
The total weight of the seized substance is estimated to be around 20 grams. In addition to the drugs, police also discovered an electronic scale, a common tool associated with drug weighing and distribution.
The 25-year-old Ukrainian, whose name has not been officially disclosed, was immediately detained with a police warrant for a period of up to 24 hours. Authorities noted that he is currently residing in Bulgaria under a temporary protection regime granted amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
An expedited pre-trial investigation has been launched into the case, and the man may face charges related to possession and possible intent to distribute illegal narcotics under Bulgarian law. Prosecutors have not yet confirmed whether the suspect will be formally charged or remain in detention beyond the initial 24-hour period.
“The presence of both the narcotic substance and the scale suggests more than personal use,” a police spokesperson stated. “This is part of our continued efforts to combat drug-related crime in resort towns where temporary residents and tourists often attract illicit trade.”
Sveti Vlas, a picturesque town located near the bustling resort of Sunny Beach, is known for its upscale residential areas and seasonal influx of foreign visitors. In recent years, law enforcement agencies have stepped up patrols and surveillance in the region to address concerns about rising petty crime and drug activity during the summer months.
The Ukrainian man’s detention comes amid heightened scrutiny of temporary residents in Bulgaria, particularly those who have arrived from Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022.
While the vast majority have integrated peacefully and lawfully into local communities, isolated incidents such as this have prompted calls for stricter monitoring.
Authorities have reiterated that the rights of all individuals under protection will be respected but that violations of Bulgarian law will be met with full legal consequences.
The investigation remains ongoing. Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests if further evidence indicates a broader distribution network.
Meanwhile, the seized narcotics have been sent for forensic analysis, and the results are expected to be submitted to prosecutors in the coming days.