Authorities have launched an investigation into reports of biological waste being illegally stored in an abandoned grocery store building in Yambol, following a directive from the Yambol Regional Prosecutor’s Office.
The investigation comes in response to recent media coverage revealing the existence of hazardous materials on the private property, sparking public concern over environmental and health risks.
According to an official statement released on Saturday, the prosecutor’s office has ordered a comprehensive inspection of the site within ten days.
The inspection will seek to uncover the identity of the property owner and establish the origins and legality of the biological waste found on the premises.
Investigators are also tasked with determining whether the handling, transportation, or storage of the waste was permitted by any government agency.
Specifically, authorities are looking into whether any licenses or authorizations were issued for the activities taking place at the site and if the facility was ever designated for such use.
In addition, the Yambol Regional Prosecutor’s Office has requested all available documentation and related information from the Regional Inspectorate for Environmental Protection and Water (RIEW) in Stara Zagora.
This includes previous inspections, complaints, and any permits that might have been issued in connection to the location or waste in question.
“The presence of biological waste in an unregulated and inappropriate location such as an old grocery store building raises serious legal and environmental concerns,” a spokesperson for the prosecutor’s office said.
“This inspection aims to clarify the facts and determine whether criminal or administrative violations have occurred.”
Local residents have expressed alarm over the revelations, citing fears of potential contamination and public health hazards.
“It’s deeply disturbing to think something so dangerous could be sitting in a place where people used to shop for food,” said Elena Georgieva, a resident of the nearby neighborhood. “We want answers and assurance that this will not endanger our community.”
Environmental experts warn that improper disposal of biological waste can pose significant threats to both human health and the environment, particularly if it involves medical or animal remains, laboratory materials, or contaminated items.
The extent and type of waste discovered in the Yambol building have not yet been publicly disclosed, pending further investigation.
Once the inspection is completed and all relevant data gathered, the materials will be submitted to a supervising prosecutor at the Yambol District Prosecutor’s Office.
The prosecutor will then determine the appropriate next steps, which could include launching a formal criminal case, initiating environmental enforcement proceedings, or ordering the immediate removal of the waste.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the site has been secured to prevent unauthorized access or further dumping. However, the prosecutor’s office emphasized that the matter is being treated with urgency given the nature of the potential risk.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials have urged the public to report any additional information that could aid the inquiry. Further updates are expected once the inspection is finalized in the coming days.