Bulgaria Investigates Reported Detention of Petyo Petrov in Belgrade

Bulgarian authorities are investigating reports that Petyo Petrov, a former investigator known as “The Euro,” has been detained in Belgrade, Serbia. Caretaker Interior Minister Emil Dechev stated on Monday that the Ministry of Interior is working to verify the information with their counterparts in Belgrade.

Verification Underway

Speaking to reporters at a ceremony marking the delivery of novel equipment to the Border Police General Directorate, Minister Dechev explained that Bulgarian authorities neither confirm nor deny the reports at this time. He indicated that the information will be released to the public once officially confirmed. Bulgarian National News Agency reported on the statement.

Who is Petyo Petrov?

Petyo Petrov, a lawyer in private practice, previously led the investigation department of the Sofia City Prosecution Office from 2013 to 2015. He is a central figure in the “Eight Dwarfs” investigation, which centers on allegations of trade in influence and theft of companies within the judiciary. Petrov, along with his ex-wife Lyubena Petrova and prosecutor Dilyan Deyanov, has been charged in connection with this case.

He is currently wanted by Europol and listed in the Schengen Information System as part of the ongoing pre-trial proceedings.

Schengen Legislation and Bulgarian Cooperation

This development comes as Bulgaria demonstrates full application of Schengen legislation, according to a recent assessment by the European Commission. The assessment, presented on March 20, 2026, highlighted substantial progress in areas including external borders, return policies, internal security, visas, and data protection.

The European Commission report identified good practices and recommended continued investment in new technologies, modernization of information systems, and adequate staffing and training for relevant authorities.