Police are probably investigating four public contracts awarded by Sungurlare council, and mayor Dimitar Gavazov has been in custody since last night, deputy mayor Tatyana Ivanova said today.

Gavazov was detained last night under the Interior Ministry Act. The detention order is still in force.

Earlier on this story: Detained in a joint operation by GDBOP and DANS in Sungurlare and Burgas

Ivanova spoke outside the regional Interior Ministry directorate in Burgas. Dozens of people gathered there today to back the mayor, among them council staff, village mayors from the municipality, relatives and local residents.

"I can't tell you exactly what is being investigated. An investigation is under way. Let it finish and we will find out," Ivanova said. She also did not say whether any money from EU projects had passed through the council.

Burgas regional prosecutor's office will give official information on the case tomorrow before noon.