Disorder and Arrests Following Protests in Sofia: Police Report Detentions and Criminal Activities

On December 11, 2025, Sofia became the scene of tension and clashes following a protest event that led to dozens of arrests and investigations into criminal activities. The events of December 10th triggered both mass demonstrations and actions that attracted the attention of law enforcement agencies.

Detained and Accusations

The Sofia Directorate of Internal Affairs (SDVR) provided information about those detained before, during, and after the protests. A total of 57 people were arrested with a police measure for up to 24 hours. Of them, 24 were registered for various crimes, including hooliganism, possession of drugs, infliction of bodily harm, robbery, and theft.

A fast-track investigation was initiated for possession of drugs. In addition, the police identified 22 minors and two underage individuals, who were handed over to their parents. Some of them are linked to criminal acts such as theft, robbery, and hooliganism.

Provocations and Seized Items

The police had operational data about prepared provocations before the start of the protests. Therefore, around 40 people were removed from the area. Prohibited items such as knives, brass knuckles, masks, and pyrotechnic devices were found on them. 10,000 leva and 1,500 euros were found on two of them.

A fast-track investigation for possession of drugs was initiated at the First Police Station. An 18-year-old youth was detained for 24 hours after a polyethylene bag with marijuana was found on him.

Escalation of Tension

After the protests, local escalation was observed near the headquarters of "DPS-Novo Nachalo" on Vasil Levski Blvd. A group of young people, dressed in black clothes and masks, headed towards the headquarters. A police cordon stopped them at the monument of Vasil Levski.

A trash can was set on fire. At the checkpoints before Independence Square, individuals with firecrackers, knives, brass knuckles, and sprays were detained.

Police Reaction

According to the director of SDVR, the police quickly controlled the situation on Vrabcha St., where a group of young people showed aggression. "These are people whom I want to differentiate from the peaceful protest," said the chief commissioner.

The Sofia Directorate has video materials for everyone who showed aggression and committed illegal acts, and they will be detained subsequently.

Accompanying Events

In addition to the protests and subsequent arrests, there were other significant events. Trade unions took action in front of the parliament and presented questions to the MPs about the budget. In addition, heavy rains caused floods and evacuations in several US states.

Changes in the education system envisage 4 years of primary, basic, and secondary education. Good news is the improvement in the condition of little Geri, whose treatment after "Bulgarian Christmas" is yielding results.

Meanwhile, Bulgaria is not allowed to repair the tanker "Kairos", which is under sanctions. And, although the government was not overthrown by the opposition, the citizens expressed their opinion.

What will follow from these events and will new arrests appear?