Justice minister vows unity after attack
Justice Minister Georgi Georgiev described the hammer attack against former deputy city prosecutor Ivo Iliev as an assault on Bulgaria’s entire judicial system. The minister maintains regular contact with the victim’s wife but declined to share investigation details or medical updates. A masked assailant struck Iliev in his residential parking garage before fleeing, prompting hospitalization and an ongoing manhunt.
Georgiev criticized the Supreme Judicial Council for remaining silent on the violence. He stressed that all branches of the judiciary must demonstrate unified opposition to such acts. The Prosecutor General has met with Iliev’s family, while the Association of Prosecutors of Bulgaria issued statements condemning the incident.
The minister addressed separate matters regarding international sanctions affecting Bulgarian operations. His ministry monitors the Commercial Register to prevent attempts to transfer ownership of targeted companies. Officials have identified Lukoil subsidiaries and the Burgas refinery as entities subject to restrictions.
The Justice Ministry reported more than 80 investigations into notary conduct this year. Authorities recommended disciplinary measures against eight notaries and plan to revoke licenses for four others. Georgiev emphasized the need for collaboration with the Notary Chamber to protect citizens’ property rights.
