Minister Demerdzhiev: We are launching a large-scale police operation, with a focus on combating drug distribution

A large-scale specialized police operation began across the country at 6:00 a.m. today, Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev announced at a briefing at the Council of Ministers.

The operation will focus on street crime and road safety, as well as economic offences related to commercial activity, price speculation and counterfeit goods.

Criminal Police will place a special emphasis on combating drug distribution. “The situation is extremely serious. We will start with schools and move up the distribution channels to their highest levels. The scale is unprecedented and affects many layers of society, but we will begin with the most vulnerable — children,” Demerdzhiev said.

All Ministry of Interior structures will be involved, including in actions targeting so-called vapes. In just one morning, police seized more than 22 litres of electronic cigarette liquid containing narcotic substances.

The minister added that broad road safety measures are also planned and that the public will be regularly informed about the results. He pointed to the discovery of 13 vehicles declared wanted as one of the first concrete outcomes.