A Norfolk family’s European holiday plans were significantly disrupted when Ivaylo Pashov from Dereham was arrested and detained at the Serbian-Bulgarian border last year. The incident occurred due to a paperwork error by the dealership that sold his family their car.
Mr Pashov, 43, was driving their Hyundai Tucson, purchased new from MotorVogue in Norwich in 2022. Despite two years of trouble-free driving, border police flagged the vehicle as potentially stolen after discovering the chassis number did not match official records.
Mr Pashov was arrested, detained, and told he could face a weekend in jail unless the issue was resolved. The car was seized, and he was released about 24 hours later after a prosecutor granted bail. He described being “completely humiliated” by the ordeal, with his dignity, freedom, and car taken.
MotorVogue admitted responsibility, citing an “administrative error” where they had incorrectly registered two identical cars, leading to Mr Pashov receiving incorrect documentation.
Following the car’s confiscation, MotorVogue arranged for Mrs Pashov and their son Alex to fly home. Mr Pashov, unable to fly, had to arrange his own journey back.
The family claims they have not received proper compensation despite numerous meetings with the dealership. Mrs Pashov stated they feel “pushed aside” and that the monthly payments for the £37,465 car “should have been stopped out of good will.” They seek adequate compensation for their experience.
A spokesperson for MotorVogue stated they have “actively supported Mr Pashov and his family,” including arranging repatriation, providing an alternative vehicle, and covering associated expenses. They expressed regret for the impact of the error.
Source: Eastern Daily Press