A comprehensive police operation targeting counterfeit currency has led to five arrests. This operation was conducted by the Counterfeiting Division of the General Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (GDCOC) in Bulgaria.
Details of the Operation
According to Interior Ministry Secretary General Georgi Kandev, the arrests included four suspects—two Bulgarian nationals and two from Romania. These arrests occurred on Monday during a transaction involving counterfeit money.
Discovery of Counterfeit Euros
Authorities revealed that the suspects were connected to the production and distribution of counterfeit EUR 100 banknotes. They had been regularly visiting Bulgaria as part of their operations.
So far, a total of EUR 1,212,300 in counterfeit currency has been located in Sofia. This significant sum reflects the scale of the counterfeiting operation.
Additional Findings
- In Pazardzhik, located in southern Bulgaria, authorities uncovered an additional EUR 200,000.
- One kilogram of cocaine was also seized during this investigation.
- An Italian citizen was detained as part of the Pazardzhik operations.
Ongoing Investigations
The GDCOC is continuing its investigations, with activities extending into Romania. The collaboration between nations highlights the seriousness of combatting organized crime and counterfeiting efforts across borders.
This series of arrests emphasizes the ongoing battle against counterfeit currency in Europe, as law enforcement agencies strive to dismantle such organized networks.
