Bulgarian corruption investigation into DPS officials

Bulgarian authorities have launched an investigation into alleged corruption and influence peddling involving officials associated with the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS) party. Between October 20 and 22, 2026, police operations led to the detention of the mayors of Belitsa, Radoslav Revanski, and Sungurlare, Dimitar Gavazov. A third individual, Hristo Shirokov, a regional DPS leader, was placed under house arrest.

The Burgas Prosecutor’s Office alleges a criminal conspiracy involving the misuse of public procurement and European funds. Specifically, the investigation focuses on contracts worth approximately €7 million in the Sungurlare municipality, covering areas such as street construction and public building repairs. Prosecutors claim Gavazov influenced municipal commissions regarding contractor selection while Revanski assisted with financing.

The arrests have sparked significant political tension. DPS leader Delyan Peevski accused Prime Minister Rumen Radev of using security services as a political tool, while DPS Deputy Chair Iskra Mihaylova stated that the party has informed the European Parliament’s Committee on Individual Rights of what they characterize as “politically motivated” actions. Prime Minister Radev has denied these claims, maintaining that the investigations are based on evidence and are not politically motivated.