Bulgarian European Prosecutor Teodora Georgieva Returns to Sofia Amid Misconduct Investigation

Sofia, Bulgaria – Teodora Georgieva, the Bulgarian European Prosecutor suspended amid a misconduct investigation, returned to Sofia on Thursday evening, March 5, 2026, on a flight from Luxembourg. The acting Interior Minister, Emil Dechev, has ordered security measures for her upon arrival, a decision described as “strange” given the serious allegations against her.

Suspension and Allegations

Georgieva was suspended by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) following an administrative inquiry into potential misconduct. This marked the first time a prosecutor has been suspended in the EPPO’s four-year history. The suspension was implemented as a precautionary measure to address concerns about the integrity of ongoing investigations, particularly those related to serious fraud within the European Union. Politico reported on the suspension.

Connections to Criminal Suspect and Allegations of Pressure

The inquiry was launched after Bulgarian media reported apparent links between Georgieva and an alleged criminal. Georgieva herself has accused Delyan Peevski, a member of the Bulgarian parliament, of exerting undue pressure on her regarding a high-profile investigation into the Chiren gas storage expansion facility. She claims she was threatened, citing a fire at her family home in which her mother died as part of the intimidation. Brussels Reporter detailed these allegations.

EPPO Response and Investigation

European Chief Prosecutor Laura Kövesi informed the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, and the European Commission about the decision to suspend Georgieva and the findings of the Disciplinary Board. The EPPO stated that the suspension was the “strongest measure available against any risk or perception of compromised integrity of investigations.” According to a College of the EPPO decision, Georgieva was suspended pursuant to Article 23 of Annex IX to the Staff Regulations.

Previous Concerns and Potential Dismissal

Prior to her suspension, Georgieva was reportedly appointed European Prosecutor with the assistance of a figure known as “Pepi Euroto,” who released recordings of conversations with her. The College of the EPPO has postponed a decision on the specific sanction, but dismissal from office remains a possibility given the seriousness of the alleged violations. Fakti.bg reported on her return and the initial allegations.

Ongoing Situation

The situation remains fluid as investigations continue. The EPPO’s actions underscore its commitment to maintaining integrity in its operations and addressing concerns about potential obstruction of investigations into serious fraud within the EU.