Approximately 250 to 300 people were involved in a mass confrontation between two families in the Romani neighborhood of Asenovgrad, according to Senior Commissioner Vasil Kostadinov, director of the Plovdiv Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior. Authorities have detained four individuals, with several others identified and pending arrest following the incident, which occurred despite a pre-existing police presence.
Police Operation and Current Status
A large-scale specialized police operation is underway in the area, involving the Plovdiv Regional Directorate, the gendarmerie, and specialized police forces. The neighborhood has been cordoned off to prevent participants from evading law enforcement. According to Senior Commissioner Kostadinov, officers are conducting comprehensive checks, including investigations into narcotics, illegal commercial activities, and the sale of excise goods without tax labels. The National Revenue Agency has been notified and is expected to join the operation.
Did You Know? The conflict between the two families has been simmering since the St. George’s Day holiday, escalating on Friday when police detained two individuals and initiated fast-track proceedings for threats of murder under Article 144 of the Penal Code.
Context of the Conflict
The confrontation, which occurred around 1:00 a.m., took place in the presence of police officers who had been deployed to the area following earlier tensions. While there was no direct physical clash between the two groups—a development attributed by the Ministry of Interior to the presence of police—participants threw various objects at one another. An air rifle was used during the altercation, resulting in 12 people sustaining minor surface injuries. All victims were treated and released for home recovery. One police officer was also struck by a pellet, though authorities report his condition is stable.
What Happens Next
A pre-trial proceeding has been initiated to address the incident. Senior Commissioner Kostadinov noted that the investigation will likely extend to issues regarding illegal construction in the area, as some buildings are municipal property while others lack clear legal status. He has publicly called for relevant institutions to take necessary legal action. As of now, the situation in the neighborhood remains calm, and authorities continue to monitor the area to ensure the restoration of public order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the mass confrontation?
According to the Ministry of Interior, there was no specific recent trigger; the incident was the result of a long-standing, escalating interpersonal conflict between two families that has been ongoing for some time.
How many people were injured in the incident?
12 individuals sustained minor surface injuries from air rifle pellets, and one police officer was also hit by a pellet. All were treated and released for home care.
What is the legal status of the participants?
Police report that all detained and identified participants have prior criminal records, with the majority having been convicted of past offenses.
Will the planned involvement of the National Revenue Agency lead to long-term changes in the neighborhood’s regulatory status?
