Bulgaria police dismantle multi‑million euro real estate fraud network in Sofia

On 14 May, Bulgaria’s State Security Service (SDVR) carried out a large‑scale operation in Sofia targeting an organized real‑estate fraud scheme that had caused tens of millions of euros in losses. Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev said nine people were detained during the raid and that the investigation will continue to unmask the full hierarchy of the operation.

Among those seized were a known criminal figure, Georgi Yanev (nicknamed “James”), and notary Boris Yankov, whose professional licence has been revoked. Authorities indicated the scheme exploited elderly and mentally‑ill individuals, and the minister warned that corrupt notaries and other facilitators would be prosecuted. Further arrests are expected as the case proceeds.