North Macedonia's Nightclub Tragedy: Officials Face Arrest After Deadly Fire

Officials in North Macedonia are under scrutiny after a nightclub fire claimed 59 lives.

As families grieve and gather at hospitals across Kocani, North Macedonia, authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a catastrophic nightclub fire that claimed at least 59 lives over the weekend, with over 150 additional injuries reported.

The fire erupted at Club Pulse during an event, ignited by fireworks that set the ceiling alight. Investigators revealed that the club was operating with a hospitality permit that had been fraudulently issued; the building was actually registered as an industrial site, which raises serious questions about compliance with safety regulations.

Public prosecutor Ljupco Kocevski announced that several officials would be questioned, including Kreshnik Bekteshi, the former minister of economy, who is said to have facilitated the illegal licensing. Authorities have detained additional personnel from various governmental agencies as part of the investigation.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, who assumed office just last June, expressed deep sorrow in a national address, asserting that “no soul in Macedonia can be whole” amid such a tragedy. He emphasized the need for accountability, asserting that the club's permit had been granted in exchange for a bribe, an allegation that adds a further layer of corruption to the already devastating situation.