The MATs are the most visible feature of the programme but they do not work in isolation. Crown Agents also deployed experts in investigation and intelligence. These advisors - all serving Customs officers with specialist experience, on secondment to the programme from European Union countries - have been working with their Bulgarian counterparts to develop these areas of work.

A new national integrated Investigation and Intelligence Function was established within the BCA and developed with Crown Agents’ assistance to improve the targeting and detection of illegal operations.

Training has been delivered to a significant number of operational BCA officers and managers throughout the country.

Greater co-operation with other national law enforcement agencies, such as the Chief Directorate for Combating Organised Crime and Border Police, was also greatly improved. All of this led to more effective gathering and sharing of intelligence and greater success in combined operations against criminal groups.

This is an important factor in terms of membership of the European Union, since Bulgaria has now become a European Union border country, responsible for protecting the whole of the Community from illegal imports.