A devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia has killed at least 59 people and injured over 155, officials say. The blaze broke out on Saturday evening at the Pulse club in Kocani, a town east of the capital Skopje.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski described it as “a difficult and very sad day” for the country, with many young lives lost. Police have blocked access to the nightclub while investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Authorities say the club did not have a legal license to operate. The incident is being investigated for allegations of corruption and bribery linked to the fire. Over 20 injured people were under 18, including three who died.
The fire started with sparks from pyrotechnic devices that hit the ceiling, made of flammable material. Video shows the band performing on stage when two flares went off, igniting the sparks before spreading rapidly.
Witnesses reported panic as there was only one entry and exit point to the makeshift club. Many people were trapped or injured in the crush. The government has declared seven days of national mourning and is holding an emergency session.
European leaders have offered condolences, with Ursula Von Der Leyen saying the EU stands in solidarity with North Macedonia’s people during this difficult time. Neighboring Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic described it as a “tragedy of immense magnitude.”
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70wdedp20wo