Why is Toma Belev, under investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, still walking free? That’s the question posed by Narod.bg. The forester-turned-urbanist reportedly pocketed BGN 2.6 million through an allegedly useless management plan for Bulgarka Nature Park—and now he’s eyeing Sinite Kamani Nature Park near Sliven, as previously reported by the site.
For several months now, the self-proclaimed environmentalist has been attempting to rally certain organizations and individuals in Sliven against two municipal council decisions:
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Decision No. 510, which designates the settlement formation "Daulite"
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Decision No. 511, which designates the settlement formation "Karandila"
Belev’s organization, the Association of Parks in Bulgaria, quickly submitted a request to the Sliven Municipal Council seeking the cancellation of both decisions.
Sources suggest Belev's opposition to these developments stems from the fact that new settlements like Daulite and Karandila cannot move forward until a new management plan for Sinite Kamani Nature Park (PUPP)—conveniently to be developed by his own Association—is created and approved. This, critics argue, would allow him to once again tap into European Union funds.
The Association of Parks in Bulgaria, founded by Toma Belev, describes itself as a non-governmental environmental organization. However, scrutiny has intensified:
On October 21, 2024, an article titled "European Prosecutors Investigate the Management Plan for Bulgarka Park Created by Toma Belev" was published, citing an ongoing EU probe. The investigation stems from an April 2024 whistleblower report alleging misuse of funds provided through the EU Operational Programme "Environment" (OPE).
Critics say Belev’s influence has delayed major infrastructure projects in Bulgaria—delays that, they argue, cost lives every year. Yet, despite the mounting evidence and active investigations, he remains at large.
