Law enforcement officials in Bulgaria announced Wednesday that they have arrested three individuals and are actively searching for a fourth suspect following the discovery of an elaborate marijuana cultivation facility constructed within an abandoned zinc mine.
The operation, which authorities believe was designed for international drug distribution, has yielded significant seizures including approximately 154 pounds of cannabis, roughly $701,400 in cash, and 600 rounds of ammunition, according to Emil Borisov, who serves as deputy director of the General Directorate for Combating Organised Crime.
“The former mine was equipped with high-tech infrastructure and was likely used for large-scale production intended for trafficking abroad,” Borisov said.
The underground facility was discovered near Garlyano village, situated at the base of Osogovo mountain just a few kilometers away from the North Macedonia border.
Law enforcement officials indicated that their investigation remains active and could continue for several more months as they work to determine the mine’s ownership structure and assess the complete extent of the criminal enterprise.
