Police operation against human trafficking for sexual exploitation

On June 10, 2025, the General Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (GDBOP) conducted a specialized police operation to neutralize the activities of a man and a woman who were holding women in forced subordination for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The operation was carried out in Sofia, under the leadership of the Sofia City Prosecutor's Office.

The two individuals have been charged with a total of 22 crimes, 11 for each of them - under Art. 321, para. 6 of the Criminal Code, Art. 159a, para. 2, in connection with Art. 20, para. 2, in connection with para. 1 of the Criminal Code, 159v, in connection with Art. 2-, para. 2, in connection with para. 1 of the Criminal Code. In the period 2022-2024, they recruited women to be used for paid sexual services, with the promise that they would receive 50% of the value.

The victims were placed in constant financial dependence through the provision of loans, shelter, food, and drugs, and subsequently various interest rates and fines were imposed, which they had to pay off. One of the women was forced to transfer a large real estate property to the traffickers.

The victims were sexually exploited in hotels, private addresses, or rented apartments in the capital, with rates of 150-300 leva per hour. They were subjected to physical violence and psychological harassment, including the removal of their children.

The investigation lasted several months, and evidence was collected against the perpetrators and their victims. Searches of homes and vehicles were carried out, and items and objects related to the criminal activity were seized. Witnesses were interviewed.

By a decision of the Sofia City Court, confirmed by the Court of Appeal - Sofia, the two defendants were placed under the measure of detention and a ban on leaving the country. The man has a criminal record with multiple convictions.

The investigation continues.