Bulgarian customs officials seized approximately 190 kilograms (420 pounds) of cocaine hidden aboard a cargo ship at the Black Sea port of Burgas. The ship, originating from Peru with a crew of 11, was transporting copper concentrate, but authorities discovered the cocaine concealed along the vessel’s pipelines.

Valued at $7 million, the drugs are part of an ongoing investigation into the intended recipients, who face potential sentences of up to 20 years in prison if convicted of drug trafficking.

Bulgaria, regarded as a key transit hub for cocaine traveling from Latin America to Western Europe, has recently intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking. This seizure underscores the country’s role in regional narcotics interdiction efforts.