Benefits Cheat Seeks Deportation from UK as £50 Million Remains Missing
A Bulgarian criminal demands deportation while only £1 million of £50 million is recovered from a massive benefits fraud scheme
Crime
Bulgaria, UK, Benefits Fraud, Stoyan Stoyanov, Universal Credit
London:
A foreign criminal is asking to be deported from the UK. Stoyan Stoyanov, 28, was part of a gang that stole over £50 million in benefits. So far, only £1 million has been recovered.
Stoyanov was jailed in 2024 for his role in this massive fraud. He and his gang made false claims for Universal Credit using real and stolen identities. They lived lavishly, flaunting their wealth with fast cars and jewelry.
During a recent court hearing, Stoyanov claimed he wanted a “normal life.” He argued that his family, who have health issues, should not suffer because of his actions. He questioned the fairness of their situation.
Despite his plea, the judge reminded him of the serious crime he committed. The gang received a total of 25 years in prison. Their leader, Galina Nikolova, is Stoyanov’s long-term partner.
The gang used around 6,000 identities to make fraudulent claims over five years. They forged documents like payslips and tenancy agreements. The fraud was uncovered after a Bulgarian police officer alerted UK authorities.
The Department for Work and Pensions faced criticism for its weak fraud checks. The scheme only came to light when criminals in Bulgaria began living extravagantly from UK taxpayer money.