Bulgarian authorities order demolition of illegal villa complex

Bulgarian state institutions have launched investigations into illegal construction following a scandal involving Georgi Maradzhiev, a former mayor of Stamboliyski and a member of the GERB party's control commission. Maradzhiev's family reportedly built a luxury bar and villa complex within a forested area near the Tsigov Chark resort, despite the land lacking the necessary status changes for development.

Regional Minister Ivan Shishkov announced that the Agency for Nature Protection (DNSK) has issued five demolition orders. These orders cover a service building with a jacuzzi, three villas, a warehouse, a gazebo, and a fitness center. While local authorities in Rakitovo reportedly failed to cut off utilities to the site for some time, ministry intervention has recently led to steps to halt the illegal activities.

Maradzhiev, who intends to run for mayor of Stamboliyski again, is already facing charges for official crimes related to rigged public procurement valued at over 2.4 million leva. Investigations into the ownership of the complex, which is registered under his daughter-in-law Gergana, are ongoing.