A devastating fire at an illegal nightclub in North Macedonia’s southern city of Kocani has claimed the lives of at least 59 people and left 155 others injured. The tragedy has prompted an extensive investigation into corruption and bribery, leading to the arrests of several local officials who allegedly allowed the nightclub to operate despite lacking the necessary permits.
Fire Breaks Out During Pyrotechnic Show
According to North Macedonian Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, the fire broke out during a pyrotechnic show onstage at Club Pulse, a venue that had been operating illegally for over a year with a fake license and no valid permit. At the time of the incident, the nightclub was packed beyond capacity, with nearly double the number of people it was designed to accommodate. With only one exit available, panic ensued as patrons tried to escape the flames.
Among the victims was a police officer who was on duty inside the club at the time. Most of those who lost their lives were between the ages of 18 and 23, while the injured ranged from 14 to 24 years old.
Authorities Arrest Officials in Corruption Crackdown
In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have launched an investigation into the nightclub’s illegal operations. More than 20 individuals are suspected of wrongdoing, with at least 15 being questioned by police. One of the main organizers of the nightclub has been arrested on suspicion of direct responsibility for the deadly blaze.
Those under investigation include a former secretary of state from the Ministry of Economy, a senior ministry official, and the region’s former director for protection and rescue. Some of the individuals involved in the illegal nightclub operations were among those killed in the fire. Authorities have confirmed that all individuals with outstanding arrest warrants have been located.
The Ministry of Economy and the Public Prosecutor’s Office are now gathering documents related to the nightclub and those responsible for its continued operation despite safety violations.
Hospital Officials Describe Horror of the Incident
Dr. Kristina Serafimova, head of the Kocani General Hospital, reported that victims succumbed to smoke inhalation, severe burns, and injuries sustained during the stampede that followed the fire. At least 27 of the injured remain in critical condition, many of whom are on respirators fighting for their lives.
Thirteen critically injured victims have been transferred to hospitals in Thessaloniki, Greece, for specialized treatment. Medical staff described the incident as a catastrophic tragedy.
Band Performing at the Time of the Fire Also Affected
Club Pulse was hosting a live performance by the band DNK when the fire erupted. According to the band’s manager, the venue had an estimated capacity of 500 to 700 people. Out of the 11 team members involved in the performance, eight perished in the fire. Among those killed was the band’s 24-year-old drummer. Three survivors from the group included one of the lead singers, a guitarist, and a backup vocalist.
Nation in Mourning, Global Leaders Express Condolences
The tragedy has left North Macedonia in shock and mourning. Mayor Konstantin Kostantinov of Strumica expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the immeasurable pain felt by the families of the victims.
Pope Francis, currently hospitalized in Rome, sent a message of condolence through Vatican officials, offering prayers for those who lost their lives and their grieving families.
As more details emerged, families of missing individuals turned to social media, posting contact details in hopes of locating their loved ones. Many victims had no identification on them, and families have been asked to assist in identifying remains at Kocani General Hospital.
The fire started at approximately 2:35 a.m. local time when pyrotechnics used by clubgoers ignited the venue’s roof, according to Toshkovski.
Government Pledges Action
North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski described the loss of so many young lives as an irreparable tragedy, stating that the government is fully mobilized to deal with the aftermath and uncover the causes of the incident. He called for unity, solidarity, and responsibility in the face of the disaster.
International leaders also expressed their condolences. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended his support to the victims and their families, stating that Ukraine mourns alongside North Macedonia. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama offered his nation’s assistance, while European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos voiced her deep sorrow over the tragedy.
As the investigation continues, the government faces growing pressure to address corruption and enforce stricter safety regulations to prevent such disasters in the future.
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