Stoyan Kolev escapes house arrest in Burgas

Influencer Stoyan Kolev has escaped house arrest in Burgas, prompting a nationwide manhunt by Bulgarian authorities. Kolev reportedly removed his electronic monitoring bracelet and fled his residence on Monday.

Following his escape, the 39-year-old TikToker posted social media videos from a vehicle outside of Bulgaria, leading to suspicions that he has fled to Romania. He later posted a new recording stating his intention to return to the country.

Investigations revealed that while under house arrest, Kolev was receiving daily deliveries of cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana at his home due to a lack of access control. His long-term substance use has reportedly exacerbated existing mental health issues. Kolev was originally detained in June near Pazardzhik after being stopped on the Trakia motorway with a paintball gun and testing positive for cocaine. He was subsequently placed under house arrest following a court appearance for hooliganism on August 12. The prosecution has requested his permanent arrest.