An investigation linked to the “Baba Alino” case has led to the detention of 25 individuals, including five employees of Varna Municipality, as authorities expand inquiries into alleged illegal construction and related practices in the region.
Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev said the operation is part of a broader probe into the activities of the KYB corporation and suspected irregularities in Varna Municipality. He confirmed that dozens of witnesses have been questioned and evidence continues to be collected.
Demerdzhiev stated, “Nevzorov has been questioned in detail, there are 25 people arrested. Some of them will be charged. Mechanisms are being clarified not only in relation to the emergence of this illegal settlement of KYB, but also other illegal practices in Varna Municipality. Evidence is being collected.”
According to the minister, the investigation covers a period spanning roughly two to four years, focusing on documentation and procedures allegedly used to legalize construction described by authorities as unlawful. He noted that the probe also examines wider administrative practices beyond the KYB case itself.
He added, “Along with the documents, it became clear that some of the employees and senior officials in the Municipality of Varna allowed themselves to be involved in such practices and in other cases that have nothing to do with Oleg Nevzorov and the KYB corporation.”
Authorities say some of the detained individuals were involved in issuing administrative documents linked to the disputed developments. Officials also indicated that further names may emerge as the investigation progresses, with suspects expected to be handed over to the prosecutor’s office once procedures are completed.
Demerdzhiev also commented on broader governance and infrastructure issues, including road safety funding and alleged misuse of public resources in construction projects. He argued that financial mechanisms intended for safety improvements must be properly directed to responsible institutions.
He said, “The money should be used for road safety in the Safety Fund, according to proposals that will come not only from our regional directorates, to which we have set tasks, but also from other responsible institutions.”
The minister further suggested that irregular practices in road construction have become increasingly sophisticated, citing examples from regional infrastructure projects as part of the wider discussion on oversight and accountability. The investigation remains ongoing.