The trial against Bulgaria's former director of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), who is charged with large-scale embezzlement, was given the go-ahead on Tuesday.

Following an investigation conducted by a team of prosecutors and military investigating magistrates, Kircho Kirov was charged with embezzling public funds worth nearly BGN 5 M denominated in EUR, USD and BGN for a period of five years (2007-2011) in his capacity as Director of NIS.

To facilitate the embezzlement, Kirov allegedly prepared over 1100 fraudulent documents certifying nonexistent official costs.

Under Bulgaria's Penal Code, the offence is punishable by 10-20 years of imprisonment and confiscation of the entire or part of the property of the offender.

The Military District Court will hear the trial behind closed doors after ruling that the matters are highly confidential.

Before going into the court room, Kirov said he hopes for a fair trial.

He declined to comment the charges – the first ever against a director of the National Intelligence Service, but hinted that political interests stand behind them.

“Just remember who fell victim to the political processes that have been going on in Bulgaria for the last year and a half,” Kirov told reporters.