Five Sigma Policemen Arrested in Bulgaria's Capital

The chief of the Sigma sub-department at the Sofia Police Directorate (SDVR) has been detained alongside four other policemen from the unit, the website Darinkews.bg quotes officials as saying.

Ivaylo Vasilev, who heads the sub-department, has been imposed detention for 24 hours over financial abuse.

The operation has been conducted by the Specialized Prosecutor's Office.

Bulgaria's Interior Ministry is due to comment on the issue later on Thursday.

All Sigma employees have been summoned to Sofia, including those on a holiday, and a total of 20 employees are currently being interrogated.

The Sigma motorcycle patrol unit is responsible for maintaining public order, carrying out investigations, escorting criminals to court or to an airport in case of an extradition.