At the request of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, eight individuals were detained in Sofia in connection with an investigation into suspected fraud involving nearly €990,000 in EU-funded employment support schemes. Authorities said the case concerns the alleged misuse of subsidies under labor market programs aimed at boosting employment.
Among those detained is a public sector employee, as the investigation centers on an organized network suspected of improperly accessing European funds. Alongside the arrests, investigators carried out eight coordinated searches, during which documents and other materials believed to be relevant to the case were seized.
Preliminary findings suggest that the group used private companies to apply for funding under the Human Resources Development Program 2021–2027. Investigators allege that false declarations were submitted and that fictitious employment relationships were created in order to meet eligibility requirements and secure financial support.
Authorities believe the scheme operated with the involvement of a public official, which may have facilitated the approval or validation of fraudulent applications. The total amount of funds allegedly obtained through the scheme is estimated at approximately €990,000.
