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Bulgaria Investigates Premeditated Murder Following Dispute Over a Woman
Table of Contents
A Bulgarian prosecutor’s office is seeking the re-arrest of a suspect in the death of a 23-year-old man, as investigations continue into a violent clash stemming from a personal dispute. The case, centered in the Smolyan and Kardzhali regions, has captivated the nation and prompted a thorough examination of the events leading to the death of Kostadin Kabajov.
Initial Arrest and Release
Denis Myumyun, 20, was initially arrested three days after the murder on November 26th, becoming the fourth individual implicated in the case. However, the Plovdiv Court of Appeal overturned the detention order in early December, citing a lack of evidence directly linking Myumyun to the physical altercation that preceded Kabajov’s death. The district court in Smolyan subsequently dismissed a further request for his detention on December 17th. Now,prosecutors are renewing their efforts to have Myumyun held in custody,citing newly obtained witness statements and evidence.
Expanding Evidence Base
The volume of evidence in the case has doubled since the initial detention request, growing from 350 to 700 pages. This includes reports from a triple forensic medical examination which determined the cause of death to be a severe craniocerebral injury.Authorities have also commissioned five additional examinations – medical, DNA, video analysis, facial identification – to build a extensive case. Investigators have conducted five site inspections, seized material evidence and security camera footage, and interviewed numerous witnesses.
the Fatal Confrontation
Kostadin Kabajov died after being beaten during a confrontation described by the prosecutor’s office as a dispute over “a woman’s and a man’s honor.” According to the examination, the conflict originated with Shaban Mehmed from Kardjali, who requested Kabajov cease contact with his girlfriend. A subsequent quarrel led to a pre-arranged meeting where both parties arrived with reinforcements, escalating into a large-scale fight. During the melee, participants reportedly fell down a steep slope, and Kabajov ultimately fell approximately 15 meters into a riverbed near the former Vinprom facility.
Investigation Details and Denials
While initial reports circulating on social media suggested a possible contract killing or shooting, the prosecutor’s office has categorically denied these claims.A senior official stated, “There are no gunshot wounds. It is indeed about a race for one woman and a wrong idea of male honor.” Although shots were fired during the fight, they were discharged from a gas weapon using blank cartridges and intended for intimidation purposes.
Eight individuals from the Kardzhali region were initially detained following the murder. Three – Bayryam Mehmed, Neim Mehmed, and Shaban Mehmed – remain in custody, with a fourth, Denis Myumyun, now facing renewed efforts for pre-trial detention. One of those initially detained tested positive for cocaine.
Community impact and Background
The death of Kostadin Kabajov, a local athlete who previously competed in kickboxing and received a municipal award for his sporting achievements in 2014, deeply impacted the community of Madan. Hundreds attended his funeral. The victim had also participated in international competitions, including the Apollo Cup in Alexandroupolis, Greece.
Adding another layer to the case, the father of the deceased is a former municipal councilor and owns a gas station, restaurant, and hotel in the mining town. He was previously arrested in 2010 on charges of usury.
Ongoing Pursuit of Justice
Authorities have emphasized that both groups involved anticipated a serious conflict.The head of the district prosecutor’s office in Smolyan has appealed to the public for any information that could assist in establishing the full truth of the events. The investigation remains active, with authorities determined to bring those responsible for Kabajov’s death to justice.
