Mitov says police cuts risk weakening public safety

Interior Minister Daniel Mitov emphasized that while efficiency improvements are needed within the Ministry of Interior, any changes must not come at the cost of reducing the operational capacity of law enforcement. Speaking at an event marking the professional holiday of the Bulgarian police and Saint Archangel Michael’s Day, Mitov pointed out that the ministry’s staff has decreased by around 12,000 over the past 15 years, even as responsibilities have remained the same.

Mitov addressed public debate over the size of Bulgaria’s police force, arguing that critics often misunderstand the ministry’s structure and duties. He said that, following the completion of the budget process, a detailed optimization plan will be introduced early next year. The minister also dismissed suggestions that the workload for border police has lessened since Bulgaria joined Schengen, stressing that European partners continue to rely on Bulgaria’s border security and that the Ministry of Interior’s work remains vital, referencing a recent tragedy near Burgas involving migrants.