The origins of Darko Šarić’s fortune remain unclear despite his letter to special prosecutors that his media-related business dealings and not drugs explain his wealth.
They began to rise when the old political systems started crumbling. Trained professional soldiers simply switched to private security companies, protecting banks, schools, money transfers and important people.
The work fed their families and gave newly formed governments much needed jobs and better security, at least in theory. In reality, the private security sector became its own political, criminal and social force.
Political parties and leaders push to maintain government control, while a new group of owners favor free market and competition.
For two decades the security guard business has been an integral part of Bulgarian political and economic life. From this business, two former karate champions – one who became premier and one a secret agent – have waged a furious fight for control.
With no regulations or licensing, private security companies have become a haven for criminals looking for a legitimate business cover. Criminals use the companies to increase their power and intimidate foes.
The Serbian Ministry of Interior (MUP) twice issued permits to a security firm operating out of an apartment associated with fugitive drug dealer Darko Šarić, who allegedly tried to import 2.7 tons of cocaine from South America.
MUP issued permits in 2006 and 2007 to Total Security System and owner Marko Šarić allowing them to buy and possess eight guns, the ministry said in a reply to questions by the Center for Investigative Reporting in Serbia (CINS).
Private guards protecting a vehicle full of pension money last fall did not carry weapons as required by law. Robbers struck and now the insurance company won’t cover the loss. Since 2002 guards have taken over from police the job of escorting money shipments in BiH.
The security sector is plagued by upstarts looking to take greater control from government, even as a rash of robberies show much work remains.
