International fraud ring sold supplements as miracle cures

Bulgaria is taking part in a large-scale international operation targeting the sale of dietary supplements marketed as medicines. Conducted with the support of Eurojust and Europol, the operation involves prosecutors and law enforcement officials from 15 countries.

According to BNR Horizont, the investigation was launched following a tip-off from former acting Health Minister Miroslav Nenkov, who said his name and image were being used in misleading advertisements for products of unclear origin.

The domestic investigation uncovered evidence of an international fraud network. The supervising prosecutor initiated an agreement with Romania, Poland, Hungary and Moldova to establish a joint investigation team.

The fraudsters mainly targeted vulnerable people, promoting dietary supplements as medicines capable of treating serious illnesses. A total of 196 websites used to advertise and sell the products have been blocked. According to preliminary information, the group generated profits of €240 million from its criminal activities.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova