North Macedonia's Club Fire Tragedy: Investigations Underway into Safety Violations

As families grapple with their devastating loss, authorities in North Macedonia have initiated an investigation into the tragic fire at Club Pulse, which claimed the lives of at least 59 people and injured more than 150. The inferno erupted during a concert when fireworks ignited the building's roof. Initial findings reveal that the nightclub was operating on an improperly issued hospitality permit, with significant safety violations noted, including the absence of proper escape routes.

The nightclub, located in Kocani—a town approximately 50 miles east of Skopje—was not legally registered as a hospitality venue, raising serious questions about regulatory oversight. The public prosecutor, Ljupco Kocevski, disclosed that the establishment was registered as an industrial facility despite receiving a hospitality permit.

In response to the tragedy, police have summoned various officials for questioning, including former economy minister Kreshnik Bekteshi, who has yet to comment. The Prime Minister, Hristijan Mickoski, conveyed his outrage during a national address, calling for accountability and expressing profound sorrow for the victims and their families. He claimed the nightclub had received its permit due to corrupt practices, stating, “We will have no mercy” on those responsible.

Relatives of the victims continue to wait for updates in local hospitals, mourning the loss of their loved ones as the country navigates through this heartbreaking event.