Bulgaria faces rising fentanyl epidemic and drug trafficking investigations

Bulgaria is facing a growing narcotics crisis characterized by the rapid spread of fentanyl and large-scale drug trafficking. Reports indicate that fentanyl has taken over the domestic drug market, with Plovdiv identified as a leading city for its use. The drug, which is significantly more potent than heroin, has led to visible public health issues, with users often found in paralyzed or frozen states in public spaces.

Parallel to the fentanyl epidemic, investigations by the SDVR into international drug trafficking channels have uncovered complex criminal networks. A significant case involving the disappearance of two men and 160 kilograms of cocaine has resurfaced, with new information suggesting links between transport companies and businesses associated with the late Plovdiv businessman Iliyan Filipov. Witnesses have provided documents to investigators to assist in tracing these connections.