The European Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating nine Bulgarian companies suspected of fraud with EU funds, the press center of the institution reported.

During the week, 25 searches were conducted in Sofia, Pernik and Montana and ten suspects were questioned - managers, owners and representatives of companies that received EU funds under the "Innovation and Competitiveness" Operational Program, which is aimed at small and medium enterprises.

They are suspected of participating in an organized criminal group and of presenting false documents and declarations in order to illegally obtain funds. During the searches, a large amount of documents, materials and equipment were seized, including trucks, excavators, and other machinery purchased with the received 6 million euros.