Police arrest leader of drug-using sect involving Bulgarians and foreigners

A Spanish national who had been residing in Bulgaria for an extended period has been detained in Kalofer for drug trafficking, the Plovdiv Prosecutor's Office press center announced. The man led a cult that used hallucinogenic drugs derived from cacti and mushrooms to influence the members - both Bulgarians and foreigners. The leader, who investigators say claimed to be the sole intermediary with "higher spirits," has been detained for 72 hours.

The State Agency for National Security informed the police that the suspect had formed a group of followers in Bulgaria who were subjected to psychological influence through pseudo-spiritual suggestions and promises of mental and physical healing. According to the authorities, the leader presented himself as a "shaman" possessing ancient knowledge acquired during his travels in North and South America.

Editor: Ivo Ivanov