Crackdown on Illegal Medication Trade in Sofia

In a notable operation, Sofia police have successfully dismantled an illegal channel involved in the distribution of unauthorized medications, including anabolic steroids and erectile dysfunction drugs. The raid, conducted in Sofia’s Student City, followed reports of unregulated distribution activities.

Details of the Operation and Arrests

Law enforcement apprehended two individuals, aged 31 and 32, while they were in the process of dispatching shipments to customers. The younger of the two suspects has a prior conviction.Authorities seized over 13,000 boxes of various pharmaceutical preparations.These substances, police warn, pose significant health risks when used without proper medical supervision and correct dosage.

These substances are risky when used without a doctor’s prescription and at the wrong dosage.

Financial Scale and Tax Evasion Tactics

The seized medications are estimated to be worth over half a million levs. The operation generated approximately BGN 120,000 to 150,000 in monthly sales. The suspects allegedly employed shell companies to evade taxes, a common tactic in illegal trade. Preliminary investigations suggest the medications were likely imported from China.

Tax evasion through shell companies is a widespread issue. According to a 2024 report by the Center for the Study of Democracy, bulgaria loses an estimated 3 billion levs annually due to tax fraud.

Investigation and Distribution Methods

Authorities are currently investigating whether this operation is part of a larger, more extensive network. The distribution relied heavily on courier services and a website popular among athletes, designed to maintain secrecy.

The medicines were only sent through courier companies, and to preserve conspiracy, they also used a site on the Internet, which is known among the athletes.

Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Investigation

Pre-trial proceedings have been initiated, focusing on charges of tax evasion and the distribution of hazardous substances. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the full extent of the network and bring all involved parties to justice.

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