The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has formally accused the former mayor of Varna and the ex-governor of the region, along with two public officials, in a significant investigation into alleged fraud involving a fishing port project. The case centers around a €3.4 million project that purportedly involved the reconstruction of a non-existent fishing port, raising serious questions about the misuse of EU funds.
Key Takeaways
- Accusations: Former Varna mayor and ex-governor charged with fraud.
- Project Details: €3.4 million project aimed at improving a fishing port that allegedly did not exist.
- Legal Proceedings: All accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Background of the Case
On October 11, 2024, the EPPO announced the charges against the former mayor, Ivan Portnih, and ex-governor Stoyan Pasev, alongside two officials from the Executive Agency Maritime Administration. The investigation was initiated following a report from the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), which raised suspicions of serious irregularities in the project.
The project in question was intended to enhance the infrastructure of a fishing port in Varna, co-funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. However, investigators found that the port did not exist at the time the funding application was submitted.
Allegations of Fraud
The allegations include:
- Forged Documents: The accused are said to have forged official documents and submitted false information to secure EU funds.
- Misrepresentation: The application claimed the existence of a fishing port, which was later found to be fabricated by assembling floating pontoons to create the appearance of a harbor.
- False Information: The application included misleading information and omitted necessary documents required by national legislation.
According to the investigation, the land designated as the fishing port was registered as rocks and sand, not as a harbor. With the assistance of public officials, the characteristics of the land were altered to mislead authorities into issuing a certificate for operational suitability.
Financial Implications
The estimated financial damage from this alleged fraud is significant:
- EU Budget: Approximately €2.8 million (BGN 5,603,035.97).
- National Budget: An additional estimated damage of €675,475 (BGN 1,321,115.78).
Reactions and Denials
In response to the charges, both Portnih and Pasev have denied any wrongdoing. Portnih, who served as mayor from July 2013 to November 2023, stated that he had not been officially notified of any indictment and claimed that the investigation was being used for political purposes during an election campaign.
Pasev echoed similar sentiments, asserting that he was not charged and was awaiting official confirmation regarding the investigation.
Conclusion
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the management of EU funds and the integrity of public officials in Bulgaria. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will impact the individuals involved and the broader political landscape in the region. All accused parties are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Sources
- Bulgaria: EPPO accuses former mayor and ex-governor in investigation into fishing port in Varna | European Public Prosecutor’s Office, European Public Prosecutor’s Office.
- European prosecutors charge former mayor, ex-governor in probe into fishing port in Bulgaria’s Varna – The Sofia Globe, The Sofia Globe.
