A tragic fire engulfed a crowded nightclub in the North Macedonian town of Kocani early this morning, resulting in the loss of 59 lives and injuring over 150 others. The blaze erupted as sparks from pyrotechnic devices ignited the roof during a live band performance.
In response to this catastrophe, authorities have detained approximately 20 individuals linked to the incident, including government officials and the manager of the Pulse nightclub, which was operating without a valid license, as confirmed by Interior Minister Pance Toskovski during a press conference. “This license, as many other things in Macedonia in the past, is connected with bribery and corruption,” he stated, underscoring the potential systemic issues at play.
The state news agency Mia reported that the club’s owner has also been taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are delving into whether corruption and bribery were contributing factors to the fire, a point emphasized by Mr. Toskovski, who noted the persistent challenges surrounding regulatory licenses in Macedonia.
One harrowing video, verified by Reuters, depicted the band performing on stage while flares illuminated the space, ultimately leading to the perilous conditions that ensued. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with friends and family frantically searching for safety as they rushed towards the exits.
Survivor Marija Taseva, 22, recounted her experience during the panic, saying, “Everyone was trying to save themselves.” As she struggled to escape, she fell to the ground, sustaining an injury on her cheek while losing contact with her sister, who remains unaccounted for. “We can’t find her in any hospital,” Ms. Taseva added, expressing the desperation felt by many.
Mr. Toskovski confirmed that the fire started at approximately 3 a.m. (2 a.m. Irish time) due to “pyrotechnic devices” that ignited the flames. Health Minister Arben Taravari reported that around 148 individuals were hospitalized across facilities in Skopje, Kocani, and surrounding areas, with 18 individuals listed in critical condition.
The public broadcaster MRT noted that 27 people were receiving treatment for severe burns at the Skopje City Hospital, while another 23 were cared for at the Clinical Centre, including minors. As news spread, many people took to social media and visited hospitals in search of missing loved ones.
Among those affected, Simeon Sokolov, 50, found his daughter Anastasija being treated for burns and smoke inhalation at the September 8 hospital in Skopje. He expressed deep concern, stating, “I just know that there are many children who have suffered. Doctors are doing their job and the number is big.”
In a show of solidarity, some patients have even been flown to nearby Bulgaria, Serbia, and Greece for specialized treatment. North Macedonia’s Public Prosecutor, Ljupco Kocevski, reassured the public that five prosecutors are assigned to the case. “At the moment, orders have been issued for the collection of evidence,” he indicated, stressing the seriousness of the investigation.
As firefighters extinguished the smoldering remains of the “Pulse” nightclub, the damage was evident—images revealed a partially collapsed roof and charred interior. In the wake of this disaster, leaders around the world have offered their condolences and support.
“My thoughts are with the people of North Macedonia following the devastating nightclub fire in Kocani overnight,” tweeted Micheál Martin, expressing his deepest sympathies to the families affected. “The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, the pain of the families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable,” echoed Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski on Facebook.
Moreover, President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, visibly moved during her visit to the injured at a hospital in Skopje, stated, “I simply cannot comprehend this … what a disaster, what a tragedy.” The commitment from authorities to support the affected families is clear, as the nation navigates through this heartbreaking event.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
