Former Bulgarian Gambling Boss Released On Bail

Vassil Bozhkov.

Vassil Bojkov’s ascent to become a leading owner in country’s gambling industry along with amassing an estimated fortune of between BGN 1.5 to 3 billion, Bojkov established himself as a formidable force, controlling a vast network of private lotteries and other gambling operations. However, his reign was not without controversy, as he found himself embroiled in a web of allegations ranging from money laundering and extortion to attempted murder and rape.

In early 2020, the Bulgarian government moved to outlaw private lotteries, effectively dismantling Bojkov’s gambling empire. Facing a slew of charges, including the evasion of over BGN 700 million in licensing fees, the former mogul fled the country, taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates. This exodus, however, was short-lived, as Bojkov eventually returned to Bulgaria in August 2023, only to be promptly detained at the Sofia Airport.

Bojkov’s return to Bulgaria set off a flurry of legal proceedings, with the former gambling tycoon facing a dizzying array of charges, including attempted murder, rape, corruption, and leading an organized crime group. After his initial detention, Bojkov was placed under house arrest, a measure that remained in place until the recent court decision.

On May 28, 2024, the Sofia Appellate Court issued a landmark ruling, granting Bojkov’s release on a BGN 130,000 bail. This decision, which came just a month after the Sofia City Court had initially approved the same bail amount, marked a significant turning point in the former mogul’s legal saga.

Wasting no time, Bojkov immediately seized the opportunity to pursue political aspirations. Following his release, he rushed to the Central Election Commission to register the candidates’ list of a coalition that includes his Bulgarian Voice party. Bojkov declared that he would be the top-of-the-list candidate for the European elections and the leading candidate for the national elections in two constituencies – one in Sofia and one in Pazardjik.

Bojkov’s decision to enter the political arena is not without strategic implications. In Bulgaria, candidates in elections are granted immunity from prosecution, a safeguard that could shield the former gambling mogul from further legal troubles should he secure a seat. This move has raised eyebrows, as Bojkov’s potential political comeback could significantly alter the country’s political landscape.

Despite his newfound freedom, Bojkov’s legal troubles are far from over. The former gambling magnate continues to face a litany of charges, including attempted rape, murder, and abetting in murder. Prosecutors have also brought an indictment against Bojkov and former officials from the disbanded State Gambling Commission, alleging the formation of an organized crime group involved in extortion, official misconduct, and corruption offenses.

The legal proceedings against Bojkov have been complex, with the initial investigation involving the former mogul and six other defendants for an organized criminal group. However, in a recent development, the case was partially closed, and some of the materials were separated and sent to the Pleven and Blagoevgrad prosecution offices. The investigation was terminated against five of the defendants due to inconclusive evidence.

As the legal saga surrounding Vassil Bojkov continues to unfold, the Bulgarian authorities remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice. The former gambling mogul’s release on bail has not deterred the prosecutors, who are determined to hold him accountable for the alleged crimes committed during his reign over the country’s gambling industry.

Bojkov’s potential political comeback and his decision to contest elections and potentially secure a seat in the European Parliament or the national legislature has raised concerns about the potential implications for the country’s governance and anti-corruption efforts.

In a strategic move, Bojkov has formed a coalition with the Alternative for Bulgaria party, a group that was established by MPs who were expelled from the nationalist Vazrazhdane party. However, the former gambling mogul has made it clear that his coalition will not partner with GERB and Continue the Change, two of the dominant political forces in Bulgaria.