The General Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (DGOB) has neutralized a criminal group that has been operating in the country since 2018 for human trafficking and sexual exploitation, the Ministry of Interior announced on Facebook.
The group was engaged in recruitment, transportation, concealment and incitement to prostitution, including through violence.
Eight people have been arrested, with six of those detained being charged with participating in an organized criminal group. One of them is named as the leader of the group, the Ministry of Interior indicated.
Six cars used for the illegal activity were seized, as well as mobile phones, SIM cards, cash and numerous documents, the Ministry of Interior added. 25 searches of homes, cars and people were also conducted.
Over 10 witnesses were questioned, expert reports were ordered and a financial investigation into money laundering is underway.
A specialized operation by the Directorate of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Department was supervised by the Sofia City Prosecutor's Office. Work on documenting the criminal activity continues.
An employee of the Directorate of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Department was detained for abuse of office, the Ministry of Internal Affairs announced earlier on its website.