Bulgarian Interior Minister Rejects Interference in “Petrohan” and “Okolchitsa” Investigations

Sofia, Bulgaria – Bulgaria’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Emil Dechev, has affirmed that he will not interfere in the ongoing investigations surrounding the “Petrohan” and “Okolchitsa” cases. This statement comes after meetings with the investigative teams from the General Directorate of the National Police, as reported by multiple Bulgarian news outlets.

Dechev Pledges Impartiality

Dechev emphasized his commitment to allowing the investigations to proceed without external influence. He stated he would not dictate which evidence should be prioritized or which lines of inquiry should be pursued or dismissed. “I expect a full, comprehensive, and objective investigation into both cases to reveal the truth,” Dechev said, according to Trud. He added that the Ministry of Interior will fully support the investigative teams.

Dismissing Rumors of Purges

The Minister also refuted recent reports suggesting planned dismissals or disciplinary actions against members of the investigative teams. “These claims are untrue,” Dechev stated, as reported by Iskra.bg and BG on Air.

Calls for Europol Assistance and Legal Constraints

The cases have prompted discussion regarding potential assistance from Europol. Although relatives of the deceased have requested international involvement, former Interior Minister Emanuil Yordanov indicated that legal obstacles may exist. According to Yordanov, intervention by foreign officials would likely require a private capacity and adherence to Bulgarian criminal procedure laws. Eurocom reported on this aspect of the investigation.

Europol itself stated that it does not provide information on national cases, and that responsibility lies with national authorities. Yet, Europol’s mandate includes assisting EU Member States in combating serious and organized crime, terrorism, and crimes affecting EU interests, and they have previously sent officers to Bulgaria for investigations, such as the case involving the deaths of 18 migrants near Lokorsko.

Current Status of Investigations

The leading theory in the “Petrohan” case remains a triple suicide, while the “Okolchitsa” case is currently being investigated as two murders and a suicide. The motives behind these incidents remain unclear.