Varna Mayor Kotsev Case: Protected Witnesses and Ongoing investigation
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The case against Varna Mayor Blagomir Kotsev continues to unfold wiht the emergence of additional protected witnesses, signaling a deepening investigation into potential wrongdoing. The case, currently before the District Court in Varna, involves allegations that have prompted heightened security measures for key individuals involved in the proceedings.
Two Protected Witnesses Emerge
Bilyana Yakova, a former municipal councilor, has been identified as the second protected witness in the case against Mayor Kotsev [[1]]. Yakova previously filed reports with the Municipal election Commission, testified in the case, and reportedly flagged potential money laundering related to donations supporting Kotsev’s financial guarantee. She has also publicly expressed strong accusations against the mayor on social media.
The first protected witness is businesswoman Plamenka Dimitrova, who currently receives civilian security provided by the Regional Directorate of the Police in Varna. Dimitrova requested a temporary lifting of her security detail between December 18, 2025, and January 5, 2026 [[2]], citing a planned trip during the holiday period.She has been provided with “protection for life and health” by the Ministry of Internal Affairs due to her involvement in the case.
Legal Framework for Witness Protection
The Civil Procedure Code allows for measures to protect witnesses when there are reasonable grounds to believe their life or health, or the lives or health of their close relatives, are at risk as a result of their testimony.These measures can include physical protection and maintaining the anonymity of the witness.
Background of the Investigation
Mayor Kotsev was initially detained on July 8th and has remained in custody following a court decision [[2]]. The investigation stems from a tip-off regarding a failed public procurement process. In April 2024, Kotsev and his deputies, dian Ivanov and Hristo Rafailov, filed a complaint with the prosecutor’s office against Bilyana Yakova, alleging irregularities in the “Integrated Urban Transport” project .
Case Relocation and Upcoming Hearing
The case was recently moved to the local court after the Supreme Court persistent that the defendants and most witnesses reside in the Varna region, ensuring a more efficient and fair trial [[3]]. The dispositional hearing is scheduled for mid-February.