As tens of thousands participated in somber funerals, expressions of anger toward corruption have surged, prompting nationwide safety inspections in nightclubs and venues.
Tragedy Strikes as North Macedonia Mourns Nightclub Fire Victims
Tragedy Strikes as North Macedonia Mourns Nightclub Fire Victims
Communities across North Macedonia come together to grieve the loss of lives from the devastating Kocani nightclub fire.
Thousands gathered at cemeteries throughout North Macedonia to pay their respects to the victims of a tragic nightclub fire that occurred in Kocani, claiming 59 lives and injuring over 160 individuals on Sunday morning. The Pulse club, a converted carpet warehouse, reportedly operated without proper licensing and safety measures, sparking outrage among locals and leading to the detention of more than 20 people, including club management and government officials.
Funerals were held across the nation on Thursday, with Kocani witnessing a particularly poignant gathering, as families mourned their loved ones, many of whom were young. Grieving attendees clutched portraits of those lost, with emotional scenes unfolding as some mourners struggled to conceal their sorrow.
In Skopje, approximately 1,000 people paid tribute to Andrej Gorgieski, a 43-year-old singer from the band DNK, who had been performing at the venue when the disaster struck. Amid grief, a growing sense of frustration directed at corrupt practices that allowed unsafe establishments to function has ignited protests across the country, reflecting the public's demand for accountability.
Following the incident, authorities initiated inspections of nightclubs and cafes across North Macedonia to address potential safety violations. The Interior Minister, Pance Toskovski, reported that the nightclub was overcrowded at the time of the fire, housing around 500 people in violation of the 250-ticket limit. Furthermore, the investigation has revealed troubling indications of bribery linked to the venue's operations.
As the nation grapples with both grief and anger, many of the injured have been transported to hospitals in neighboring countries for advanced medical care, highlighting the urgent need for stricter safety regulations.
