site.btaNorth Macedonia Upgrades Probe into Arson Attack on Bulgarian Diplomatic Vehicles

The case concerning the arson attack on Bulgarian diplomatic vehicles has been transferred from the Basic Public Prosecutor’s Office in Skopje to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for the Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption, which has opened an investigation against the suspect for "endangering persons under international protection" under Article 420(1) of the Criminal Code. The offense carries a minimum prison sentence of one year.

The initial proceedings against the suspect were launched on charges of "causing public danger" under Article 288 of North Macedonia’s Criminal Code.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the evidence gathered so far indicates that by setting fire to the two vehicles parked outside the Bulgarian Embassy in Skopje on June 15, 2026, "which were used by Bulgaria’s military attaché and other embassy personnel, the arrested 44-year-old man from Skopje created a significant threat to the life and health of persons enjoying international legal protection."

"This offense falls within the category of crimes against humanity and international law and is based on the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Internationally Protected Persons, Including Diplomatic Agents. The competent prosecutor has submitted a request to the preliminary proceedings judge for the imposition of a 30-day detention measure," the statement said.

The suspect is currently being held under an eight-day detention order.

Earlier this week, two diplomatic vehicles were set on fire outside the Bulgarian Embassy in Skopje, located on a busy street in the center of North Macedonia’s capital, shortly after midday. Security camera footage shows a man carrying a plastic bag removing a bottle containing a flammable liquid, pouring it over the two vehicles, setting them alight, and then walking away.

The incident prompted numerous reactions in Bulgaria and the European Parliament. Statements were also issued by the EU Delegation in Skopje, the French and German embassies in Skopje, as well as associations representing Bulgarians in the country.