22 Detained in Sunday's Anti-Govt Protest in Sofia

On Sunday, for a 10th day in a row, thousands of Bulgarians gathered in downtown Sofia to demand the resignation of the Oresharski cabinet, the introduction of a transparent and accountable model of government and curbing the influence of oligarchs. Photo

Police have arrested 22 people and diverted over 200 from Sunday's protest in Sofia against Bulgaria's socialist-led government of Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski in a bid to prevent disturbances of public order and safety.

On Sunday, for a 10th day in a row, thousands of Bulgarians gathered in downtown Sofia to demand the resignation of the Oresharski cabinet, the introduction of a transparent and accountable model of government and curbing the influence of oligarchs.

According to reports of the Interior Ministry, following an escalation of tension in the area around the National Palace of Culture (NDK),  police officers from the 4th Regional Police Directorate in Sofia detained 22 people, two of whom, who were found to be the instigators of the disturbance, were referred to the prosecuting authority.

Six others were taken to the 1st and 5th Regional Police Directorates over the lack of ID papers and the possession of prohibited items.

Over 200 people were diverted from the demonstration to prevent disturbances of public order.

Police thanked citizens who helped localize groups of provocators among the protesters.

The Interior Ministry also called on people to distance themselves from acts of violence and attempts at provocation and public order offences.

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