59 dead, 155 injured in North Macedonia nightclub fire; 15 detained

A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, has resulted in the deaths of at least 59 individuals, with 155 others injured, many critically. The incident occurred during a hip-hop concert when pyrotechnic effects ignited the club's flammable ceiling materials, leading to a rapid spread of the blaze, the AP reported.

According to information, the fire erupted at approximately 02:30 local time (01:30 GMT) on Sunday at the Pulse nightclub. A spokesman for the public prosecutor’s office said only one member of DNK (a popular hip-hop duo in the country) survived and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital.

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire spread rapidly after pyrotechnic effects ignited flammable ceiling materials. Many victims were trapped inside due to a lack of emergency exits and poor safety measures.

Investigations have revealed significant safety violations: the club was operating without a proper license, was overcrowded—hosting approximately 1,500 attendees despite a much lower capacity—and lacked essential fire safety measures, including accessible exits and fire extinguishers.

Authorities have detained 15 individuals, including government officials and the club's management, on suspicions of corruption and bribery related to the club's operations, the Guardian reported.

Interior minister Pance Toskovski confirmed that the 15 detainees will be questioned as part of the investigation. He stated that there are "grounds for suspicion that there is bribery and corruption" linked to the fire at the nightclub, the BBC reported.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow, stating that "the loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable." He emphasized that "the government is fully mobilized and will do everything necessary to deal with the consequences and determine the causes of this tragedy."

North Macedonian government has declared a seven-day period of national mourning and initiated comprehensive inspections of similar venues to prevent future incidents.

Neighboring countries and international leaders have extended condolences and support during this challenging time.