Authorities in Sofia are ramping up security measures in shopping malls following a tragic stabbing that left a 15-year-old boy dead. The Capital Directorate of Internal Affairs (SDVR) has announced plans to install metal detectors and increase police patrols in and around commercial centers.
The move comes in response to last week’s shocking incident in a Sofia mall, where a 15-year-old fatally stabbed another teenager during an altercation. Police say the two boys had a history of conflict, which escalated into violence inside the crowded shopping complex.
Chief Inspector Stefan Popov, head of the SDVR’s “Child Crime and Criminal Contingent” sector, said the new security measures are a direct response to rising concerns over youth violence.
“With the colder months approaching, more young people will spend time in malls. Some have previously caused disturbances. We emphasized the need to strengthen security, especially as the holiday season approaches,” Popov told reporters.
According to Popov, authorities will push for the installation of metal detector frames at mall entrances. However, the decision and implementation will depend on private security companies managing the facilities. “In today’s reality, this has become a necessity,” he said.
The SDVR has also instructed private security firms to maintain better communication with law enforcement. “Since last year, we have teams stationed near every mall, ready to respond to any signals. Security companies must exchange phone numbers of duty officers so guards can quickly alert us if they notice suspicious behavior,” Popov added.
The fatal incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. The SDVR explained that the two boys met outside the mall before entering separately, where their confrontation resumed and ended tragically. The attacker fled the scene with a friend but was located by police a few hours later.
Popov described the suspect’s background as troubled. “His family frequently changed addresses and lived in poor conditions,” he said. The boy had been known to authorities since 2022 and was placed in a social home in Elin Pelin before being returned to his parents by court order in August 2024.
Senior Inspector Vanya Tsonkova, head of the SDVR’s “Child Crime” group, confirmed that the victim had no prior record. In contrast, the perpetrator had a history of theft and robbery, lacked parental supervision, and lived a vagrant lifestyle. “This escalation ultimately led to the tragic stabbing,” Tsonkova noted.
The SDVR has already begun inspecting private security firms to ensure compliance with regulations and preparedness for emergencies. Officials say these actions are part of a broader strategy to deter violent behavior among minors and restore public confidence in mall safety.
As Sofia residents prepare for the busy holiday shopping season, the authorities’ message is clear — stronger preventive measures and closer coordination between police and private security are essential to preventing future tragedies.