site.btaAt Least 69,000 Bulgarians Used Heroin in 2024

At least 69,000 Bulgarians aged 15–64 used heroin in 2024, according to data of the Ministry of Interior. The data was shared on the ministry’s official Facebook page, citing the National SOVA 5 Survey, published at the end of May by the National Focal Point on Drugs and Drug Addictions.

Over 868 kg of heroin were seized during operations carried out by the Ministry of Interior and the Customs Agency last year, the ministry added.

According to the study, heroin is 2 to 3 times stronger than morphine and can cause addiction after just a few doses. The drug is typically found as a white or brown powder, and is often mixed with fentanyl, which increases the risk of overdose.

Overdose death can occur within minutes due to respiratory failure, while long-term use can cause severe damage to the veins, heart, liver, and brain.

Heroin originates mainly from Asian countries. Over 85% comes from Afghanistan, and the annual profit generated through the criminal network exceeds USD 65 billion, according to the Ministry.

Heroin is made by processing the opium poppy, the ministry explained. It was first synthesized in 1874 by Charles Wright and was once sold legally as a cough and pain remedy. Today, it is considered one of the most addictive and deadly substances.

At the end of July, Interior Minister Daniel Mitov announced the seizure of approximately 2.73 kg of fentanyl during an operation involving officers from the General Directorate for Combating Organized Crime.