Fifteen Arrested Following Fire in North Macedonia That Claims 59 Lives

A devastating fire erupted at approximately 2:30 AM local time (1:30 AM GMT) on Sunday at the Pulse Club in Kocani, where around 500 attendees had gathered for a performance by DNK, a well-known hip-hop duo in the country. The venue, previously a carpet warehouse, had been described in local media as an “improvised nightclub.”

Casualties and Injuries

According to a spokesperson from the public prosecutor’s office, only one band member survived and is currently receiving medical treatment. In total, 155 people sustained injuries during the incident. Officials have reported that more than 20 of the injured and three of the deceased were under 18.

Most patients arrived with severe burns, primarily on the head, neck, and upper torso. Kocani’s hospital director noted that the lack of identification cards initially made it difficult to confirm patients’ identities. Eighteen individuals are reported to be in critical condition.

Cause of the Fire

Interior Minister Pance Toskovski, referencing initial reports, stated that the fire was triggered when sparks from pyrotechnic effects ignited a highly flammable ceiling material. Footage of the event shows the band performing when two flares were set off, followed by sparks reaching the ceiling and rapidly spreading flames. Reports indicate that the nightclub’s single entry and exit caused panic as people struggled to escape.

Arrests and Investigations

Interior Minister Toskovski stated that 15 individuals have been arrested and are under investigation, citing suspicions of bribery and corruption in connection with the fire. He also confirmed that the venue was operating without a valid license.

Biljana Arsovska, representing the public prosecutor’s office, revealed that the venue had only one functional exit. The back door was locked, preventing its use as an emergency escape. Preliminary inspections on Sunday uncovered several safety violations, including inadequate fire suppression and lighting systems.

Government and Public Response

President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova expressed her deep sorrow, stating she was heartbroken. Offering condolences to the grieving families. In a statement, she emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, saying, “No business or activity should be allowed to operate without proper standards and rules. We must ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.”

International Support

The most critically injured patients are being transferred to specialized medical facilities in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey for treatment.

European leaders have extended their condolences, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirming the EU’s solidarity with North Macedonia during this difficult time.

Photo credit: AFP. All rights reserved.