Bulgarian Officials Indicted for Fraudulent Activities Linked to European Union Funds

Major Blow to Corruption in Bulgaria

SOFIA, Bulgaria - In a significant step towards combating corruption, Bulgarian officials have been indicted for their alleged involvement in fraudulent activities linked to European Union funds. This development comes as part of a broader effort by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) to combat fraud affecting the financial interests of the EU.

Stolen Funds and Complex Networks

According to investigators, the accused officials diverted millions of euros in EU funding intended for various projects and programs across Bulgaria. The stolen funds were allegedly laundered through complex networks of shell companies and offshore accounts.

EPPO’s Role in Combating Fraud

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting fraud cases involving EU funds. As a member state of the EPPO, Bulgaria has a legal obligation to cooperate with the office’s investigations. The EPPO was established under Council Regulation 2017/1939.

National Institutional Framework

Bulgaria has set up a national institutional framework to enable cooperation with the EPPO. The Council for Coordination of the Fight Against Infringements Affecting the Financial Interests of the European Union, established in 2003, ensures coherence and complementarity of measures taken by national authorities in the fight against irregularities and corruption involving EU funds.

AFCOS Directorate’s Role

The AFCOS Directorate, a special unit within the Ministry of Interior, plays a crucial role in controlling, informing, and coordinating activities related to the protection of EU financial interests. The directorate acts as a secretariat for the Council and assists its work.

Indictment: A Major Victory for Transparency and Accountability

The indictment is seen as a major victory for transparency and accountability in Bulgaria’s public sector. The accused officials face serious charges and could potentially spend several years behind bars if convicted.

“This is a significant step towards combating corruption and fraud in Bulgaria,” said [Name], European Chief Prosecutor. “We will continue to work closely with our Bulgarian counterparts to ensure that those responsible for these crimes are held accountable.”

A Warning to Other Officials

The case serves as a warning to other officials who may be involved in similar activities. The EPPO has made it clear that it will not tolerate fraudulent activities involving EU funds and will pursue all cases to the fullest extent of the law.

National Strategy for Preventing and Combating Irregularities and Fraud

As Bulgaria prepares to implement its National Strategy for Preventing and Combating Irregularities and Fraud Affecting the Financial Interests of the European Union over the period 2021-2027, this case highlights the importance of cooperation between national authorities and the EPPO in combating fraud.