Overview
- The Bulgarian-run network submitted around 6,000 bogus Universal Credit claims using forged documents and stolen identities between 2016 and 2021.
- At a December court hearing, prosecutors said most of the money was spent or moved overseas, with only about £1–2 million realistically recoverable.
- Judge David Aaronberg KC accepted confiscation amounts based on what could be proven for each defendant under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
- All members except Gyunesh Ali have been released from prison on immigration bail and are awaiting deportation.
- The case was uncovered after a Bulgarian police tip, and investigators seized cash and luxury items, including more than £750,000 linked to Galina Nikolova.