Increased police presence at all public places on New Year ’s Eve

Increased security measures are taken ahead of New Year's Eve. The Interior Ministry said on 31^st of December there would be an increased police presence in all public places around the major retail chains as well as in restaurants. The police will also check drivers for alcohol and drugs use. Traffic Police expect heavy traffic on January 1 and 2.

On January 1, Road Traffic Police expect the biggest congestion on Hemus Motorway. Before "Vitinya" tunnel in the direction to Sofia there will be a traffic break. The aim is to prevent drivers from sitting in the tunnels for a long time. Police will also strictly monitor for driving in the emergency lane.

Road traffic control in the capital city is getting tighter in the early afternoon. Police will check for alcohol and drugs. The Ministry of Interior also warns drivers that it is not safe to use the "Drink and Drive" service.

Lubomir Kostadinov, Road Traffic Police Department at the State Agency for Refugees: We have many findings that the employees who run these cars, at least on the territory of Sofia, use alcohol, narcotic substances or are inappropriate.

Police reported no serious criminal offenses during the holidays. There is a decline of 19% in robberies compared to last year and 12% in car theft.