In Czechia obtaining a driving licence is easier compared to Bulgaria, and replacing a Bulgarian licence with a Czech one also does not pose a serious difficulty. This was stated by criminologist Ivan Slavov, commenting on the differences in requirements between the two countries.
According to him, obtaining a driving licence in Czechia does not require an educational diploma, which in his view creates conditions for people with low literacy to acquire the right to drive. "Some of the participants in the crash on "Chelopesko Shose" probably used precisely such a scheme to obtain driving licences," noted Slavov.
The criminologist emphasized that there is an illegal market for driving licences for motor vehicles. According to him, such practices are far from new: "In the past, cases involving British driving licences were established," he recalled.
"There are also known examples with Albanian documents, mainly for professional driver categories," added Slavov, explaining that such schemes are often used by people who would not be able to meet the standard requirements in the country.
Regarding information about links between some of the drivers and the so‑called "Kalashnitsi gang", Slavov stated that in his opinion this is a self‑designation of a criminal group. He described it as an organised structure engaged in various illegal activities.
According to him, the group is involved in racketeering, prostitution, usury and other offences with the main goal of financial gain. "This is an organised structure that uses violence and fear to maintain its influence," the criminologist pointed out.
Slavov claims that such groups operate mainly in certain Roma neighbourhoods of "Sofia", including "Fakulteta" and "Hristo Botev". ""Law‑enforcement authorities are familiar with the activities of these circles, and the revenues from their illegal business are significant,"" he added.