Former police officer charged with murder in Sedyannine

A former police inspector, 63-year-old Todor Lapkov, has been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Mitko Dimitrov near Sedyannine. According to Plovdiv District Prosecutor Vanya Hristeva, the victim was shot twice in the chest with an illegal hunting shotgun during a dispute on August 12.

Following the killing, Lapkov allegedly dismembered the body, placed the remains in plastic bags, and disposed of them in a shaft on his farm. The victim, a resident of Nayden Gerovo, had been reported missing by his father after a disagreement. While Lapkov initially denied involvement during police questioning, he later confessed and assisted in locating the remains.

Investigators are exploring several motives, including potential self-defense or a conflict regarding a previous theft of 1,000 euros. Local officials noted that the victim had a criminal record involving thefts and assaults on elderly residents, which may be relevant to the investigation. Lapkov faces charges of premeditated murder and illegal possession of a firearm, carrying potential sentences ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment.