In brief
A devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia has led to the death of at least 59 individuals and left over 150 injured. Investigations are underway, with officials being detained for possible misconduct related to the venue's illegal operating license.
As families gather in hospitals to await news of their loved ones, North Macedonia is reeling from a tragic nightclub fire that occurred over the weekend, resulting in the deaths of at least 59 people and injuries to more than 150. Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire, which devastated Club Pulse in Kocani early Sunday morning.Officials disclosed that Club Pulse was operating under an illegally obtained hospitality permit as it had been registered primarily as an industrial facility. The inferno reportedly erupted after fireworks ignited the venue’s roof during a live concert. Ljupco Kocevski, the public prosecutor, confirmed that the economy ministry had issued the club’s permit improperly.In the aftermath, multiple officials have been summoned for questioning, including former economy minister Kreshnik Bekteshi, who has yet to respond publicly. Additionally, at least one other former official from the ministry and several other government workers have been detained as inquiries into the incident intensify.Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed his profound sorrow during a national address, vowing, "I will have no mercy" on those responsible for the oversight. He further revealed that the club's license was allegedly granted in exchange for a bribe last March. As investigations continue, the nation mourns its loss, with many in Macedonia expressing their grief and outrage at the preventable nature of this tragedy.
