A Bulgarian woman convicted in Britain's largest ever benefits fraud has sparked outrage by returning to the welfare system after her release from prison. Tsvetka Todorova, 54, who helped steal more than £54 million from taxpayers, is now claiming Universal Credit while vowing to resist efforts to deport her.
From Prison 'Vacation' to Taxpayer-Funded Lifestyle
Todorova was sentenced to three years in prison in May 2024 for her part in a vast conspiracy that systematically plundered the UK's welfare system over four and a half years. The gang hijacked an estimated 6,000 identities, including those of children living in Bulgaria, to submit false Universal Credit claims.
Despite her conviction, Todorova has returned to a 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, estimating her entitlement at around £200 a month. Her husband also claims over £1,300 monthly in Universal Credit.
In a brazen interview, Todorova described her time in HMP Bronzefield as "like a vacation", boasting about getting her hair and nails done. She now claims the court case left her and her husband "depressed", citing high blood pressure and back pain.
A Gang's Lavish Fraud and Limited Consequences
The criminal operation ran three 'benefit factories' across London, producing bogus tenancy agreements, counterfeit payslips, and forged letters from landlords, employers, and GPs to deceive the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Of the five main conspirators, four are now free on immigration bail awaiting deportation. Confiscation proceedings are ongoing, but so far, officials have only managed to recoup a fraction of the stolen millions. Three gang members—Galina Nikolova, 40, Patritsia Paneva, 28, and Stoyan Stoyanov, 29—have been ordered to repay just £1 million between them.
Neighbours describe Paneva, who made at least £225,000 from the scam, spending her days smoking and lounging in a dressing gown at her east London home. Todorova's own neighbours report frequent parcel deliveries to her flat and note the couple often wear expensive clothing.
Government Review and Deportation Battle
Following enquiries by the Mail, the DWP stated it is "reviewing" the decision to award Todorova Universal Credit. A Government spokesperson emphasised this was a "disgraceful crime against the British public" and that rigorous action is being taken to recover the funds.
The spokesperson warned that if those involved do not repay the money within the required time, they could be sent back to prison and then deported. However, deportation can only proceed once confiscation hearings conclude.
Todorova remains defiant, stating, "I do not want to leave Britain... They cannot push me. They cannot force me." She maintains her innocence despite having pleaded guilty, claiming, "I was only helping. They have made a mistake with me." The DWP's review of her benefit claim is now underway as public anger grows over this audacious exploitation of the welfare state.
