A specialized police operation targeting crimes related to political rights, conventional crime, and drug distribution in Bulgaria’s Burgas region has resulted in the detention of 14 individuals, one of whom is a foreign national.
The ongoing crackdown has revealed cases of vote-buying and drug-related offenses across several areas, including Burgas, Sozopol, Karnobat, and Aytos.
Three Arrests Linked to Election Fraud
Authorities arrested three individuals suspected of involvement in election-related crimes, particularly concerning the practice of “bought votes.”
During a search of commercial establishments in Burgas, Sozopol, and Karnobat, police officers discovered notebooks containing names and amounts of money linked to the illegal activities.
Additionally, in Aytos, a suspect was detained after a search revealed personal data and election materials from previous elections. The evidence is being analyzed as part of the investigation into vote-buying schemes and attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
Ten Suspects Detained on Drug Charges
The operation also resulted in the arrest of ten individuals for offenses related to the production, possession, and distribution of narcotic substances.
One case involved a woman in the “Pobeda” quarter of Burgas who was caught with 200 grams of a substance known as “crushed tea,” a type of synthetic drug.
The woman, a known criminal in the area, was charged with possession and distribution, with authorities seizing 100 doses during the arrest.
In the Acacias district, five men were detained on suspicion of methamphetamine possession and distribution. Nearly 100 grams of the drug were confiscated during the operation.
Authorities noted that the suspects were operating within a known drug trafficking zone, and the investigation is expected to yield further arrests in connection with the methamphetamine trade.
Innovative Drug Distribution Scheme Uncovered
In another significant case, a man with a prior criminal record was arrested in Burgas’ Fourth District Administration for operating a sophisticated drug distribution scheme.
The scheme involved providing buyers with a card containing a QR code that linked to a Telegram channel. Through this channel, customers could purchase drugs from the dealer at any time, effectively streamlining the illegal drug trade and avoiding direct contact.
During the arrest, 120 grams of marijuana, divided into 120 small packets, were seized. Authorities believe the scheme may have been operating for some time and are investigating potential accomplices.
Foreign National Arrested for Drug Possession
The operation also led to the arrest of a foreign national in the village of Kosharitsa. The individual, an English citizen, was found in possession of around 500 grams of dried cannabis.
Police from the Nessebar District Administration conducted a search of the suspect’s residence, where the drugs were discovered. The substance tested positive for marijuana during a preliminary field drug test.
The detainee is currently facing charges for drug possession and potential distribution, with further investigations ongoing to establish any connections to larger drug networks.
Ongoing Investigations
The specialized operation aims to dismantle organized crime networks operating in the Burgas region, addressing both traditional criminal activities and emerging trends, such as digital drug sales.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of public cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious activities and remain committed to upholding the law and safeguarding the political rights of citizens.
The police operation is expected to continue in the coming days as investigations into the detained suspects progress.