Financial Crime World

European Public Prosecutor’s Office Brings to Justice Those Responsible for Fraud and Irregularities in Bulgaria

Bulgaria Held Accountable for Misuse of EU Funds

Sofia, Bulgaria - The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has taken decisive action against those responsible for perpetuating fraud and irregularities affecting the financial interests of the European Union in Bulgaria.

Investigation Reveals Widespread Scheme

According to a report by the EPPO, several high-ranking officials within the Bulgarian government and administration were found to have been involved in a wide-ranging scheme to embezzle EU funds meant for development projects in the country. The scheme, which was uncovered during a two-year investigation, involved the misappropriation of millions of euros intended for infrastructure projects, housing schemes, and other development initiatives.

Key Findings

  • High-ranking officials used their positions to divert EU funds to personal bank accounts, shell companies, and other illegal entities.
  • Several Bulgarian government agencies and institutions were complicit in the scheme, including:
    • Ministry of Interior
    • Prosecution Office
    • Directorate for Protection of Financial Interests of the European Union (AFCOS)
  • Millions of euros in assets and property linked to the scheme are being sought to be seized.

Charges Filed and Action Taken

The EPPO has charged several individuals, including high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Interior and the Prosecution Office, with fraud, embezzlement, and other criminal offenses. The organization is also seeking to seize millions of euros in assets and property linked to the scheme.

Response from the Bulgarian Government

In response to the EPPO’s findings, the Bulgarian government has pledged to take immediate action to strengthen its anti-fraud efforts and to cooperate fully with the EPPO in investigating and prosecuting those responsible for fraud and irregularities.

Commentary from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office

“Bulgaria’s failure to prevent and combat irregularities and fraud affecting the financial interests of the European Union has resulted in significant harm to the EU’s budget and reputation,” said a spokesperson for the EPPO. “The EPPO will continue to work closely with national authorities to bring those responsible to justice and to ensure that EU funds are used transparently and effectively.”

Background on the European Public Prosecutor’s Office

The EPPO was established under Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, which allows for enhanced cooperation between the EU and national authorities to combat fraud and irregularities affecting the financial interests of the Union.