Sofia court keeps Ukrainian national in custody for murder of Japanese girlfriend

The Sofia City Court has ordered that Yaroslav Gulyatkin, a 25-year-old Ukrainian citizen, remain in custody pending trial for the murder of his 18-year-old Japanese girlfriend in the Buckston district of Sofia.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that six knives containing biological traces were seized from the residence. Forensic examinations of the victim's body showed multiple contusions and swelling, which experts noted were consistent with the victim having put up a fierce struggle before her death. Law enforcement also discovered bloodstains both inside and in front of the apartment.

Prosecutor Rusalina Mihaylova argued that Gulyatkin poses a flight risk due to his foreign citizenship and temporary residency status. She further noted that following the incident, the defendant allegedly damaged three vehicles and the entrance door of the residential building. The prosecution also cited a risk of recidivism.

Defense attorney Vladimir Velevski contested the charges, stating there are no direct witnesses to the killing and that the evidence is insufficient. Gulyatkin requested house arrest due to health issues related to pancreatitis, but the court rejected the motion, maintaining his detention.