A Bulgarian woman convicted for her role in the largest benefits fraud in British history has sparked outrage by returning to the welfare system immediately after her release from prison. Tsvetka Todorova, 54, is now claiming Universal Credit while boasting about her taxpayer-funded life and vowing to resist deportation.
From Prison 'Vacation' to Taxpayer Support
Tsvetka Todorova was sentenced to three years in prison in May 2024 for her part in a conspiracy that systematically plundered more than £54 million from the UK's public purse. The fraud, which operated for over four and a half years, involved hijacking thousands of identities, including those of children living in Bulgaria, to submit false Universal Credit claims.
Despite her conviction, Todorova has returned to her rented flat in Erith, south-east London, and signed on for benefits. She revealed to the Mail that she has been receiving payments since December 30, amounting to roughly £200 a month, while her husband claims over £1,000. "I do not have a right to work," she stated, showing little remorse for her previous crimes.
A Lifestyle Funded by the Public
In a brazen interview, Todorova described her time in HMP Bronzefield as "like a vacation," where she enjoyed having her hair and nails done. Now free, she claims the court case has left her and her husband "depressed" and suffering from health issues, including high blood pressure.
She remains defiant against efforts to send her back to Bulgaria. "I do not want to leave Britain. My family is here. I love it here... They cannot push me. They cannot force me," she declared, despite pleading guilty to the fraud. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), informed by the Mail, confirmed it is "reviewing" the decision to award her benefits.
Gang Members Enjoy Early Freedom
Todorova is not alone in resuming a life at public expense. Other members of the five-strong gang, who set up three 'benefit factories' across London to forge documents, are also out of prison on immigration bail.
Patritsia Paneva, 28, who made at least £225,000 from the scam, was seen at her east London home wearing a dressing gown in the afternoon. A neighbour reported, "All she does is stand outside the front door, smoking. She's always got her dressing gown on."
Confiscation proceedings are ongoing, with three gang members ordered to repay just £1 million of the vast sum stolen. Officials have so far recouped about £1 million and are seeking another £1 million, a fraction of the total theft. A Government spokesperson warned that failure to repay could result in a return to prison and subsequent deportation.
The case highlights severe vulnerabilities in the benefits system, exploited by criminals who showed no contrition. As Todorova and her co-conspirators await their fate, the British public continues to foot the bill for their audacious crimes.
