site.btaBritish Authorities Have Not Approached Bulgarian Embassy in London about Bulgarians Arrested for Espionage

So far the authorities in the UK have not approached the Bulgarian Embassy in London in connection with the information reported by the BBC about three Bulgarian citizens detained on suspicion of spying for Russia, the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry reported here late on Tuesday. 

The Ministry explained that local law enforcement authorities notify the Bulgarian diplomatic mission about the detention of a Bulgarian citizen only if the detainee expressly requests it. In this sense, if the Bulgarian citizen concerned expresses his/her unwillingness, the Bulgarian Embassy does not receive information about his/her detention, the Foreign Ministry explained. 

The Foreign Ministry remains in constant contact with the Bulgarian Embassy in London and is monitoring the case. 

Earlier on Tuesday, BBC reported that three Bulgarian citizens were detained in the UK on suspicion of spying for Russia, publishing their photos and announcing their names. 

The Sofia City Prosecution Office said it was conducting an investigation into the case and the pre-trial proceedings were initiated back in March 2023.