site.btaSofia Interior Chief Nikolov: 28 Armed Youth Incidents Recorded

Since the start of the year, reports have been received for 28 incidents involving individuals dressed in black, carrying batons, knuckle dusters, and similar items while walking through downtown Sofia, said the head of the Regional Directorate of the Interior Ministry in Sofia Lyubomir Nikolov.

Nikolov spoke at a briefing on attacks by groups of young people known as lokali. In some of these instances, minor citizens have been attacked during the night.

Nikolov added that in 24 of these cases, suspects have been detained and pre-trial proceedings launched where the law permits. For minors, pre-trial proceedings cannot be initiated and the responsible authorities are notified instead, Nikolov explained.

He also noted that parents are subject to administrative penalties, but at this stage, no such penalties have been imposed.

Nikolov called on parents and teachers of minors to stay alert to possible problems with their children, watch their behaviour carefully, and closely monitor when they leave and come home.

One incident in the early hours of May 6 shows the steps police are taking to address youth crime. During an attempted robbery near the National Theatre Garden, one group of youths attacked another. The attackers used a knife, made threats, and hit their victims, acting as if they did not fear any consequences, said head of Sofia First Police Precinct Ivo Zahariev.

He said that, following a report, three of the offenders were detained, while one minor managed to escape. However, this minor was also apprehended within hours, Zahariev stated, adding that the fourth offender has previously been registered for similar offenses multiple times. The suspect is now facing charges and procedural restrictions. The investigation is ongoing.