North Macedonia investigates deadly nightclub fire

(CLO) North Macedonia has lowered its flags to half-mast in memory of the victims of a nightclub fire that killed dozens of people. More than 20 people are currently under investigation in connection with the tragedy.

North Macedonia's Interior Ministry announced on Monday that more than 20 individuals are being investigated in connection with the nightclub fire, including government officials and the facility's management.

Image of the ruins inside the nightclub after the fire was extinguished. Screenshot.

The fire broke out when stage fireworks ignited part of the ceiling of the Club Pulse nightclub, which was found to have violated multiple fire safety regulations, according to prosecutors. At least 59 people were killed and hundreds injured.

State prosecutor Ljupco Kocevski said a preliminary inspection at the nightclub in the town of Kocani had uncovered serious violations.

The nightclub did not have the required two exits, but had only a homemade metal door at the back that was locked and had no handle on the inside. The nightclub was not equipped with adequate fire extinguishers and did not have an automatic sprinkler system. The exits were obstructed, making it difficult for fire trucks to quickly reach them. The ceiling and interior walls were lined with flammable material.

"These errors are very serious. I can confirm that this is a failure of the whole system," Mr. Kocevski said.

Authorities have arrested 20 people, including government officials and nightclub managers. About 15 people are currently in custody, while others are receiving medical treatment.

Mr. Kocevski said his office is considering criminal liability of these individuals in connection with “serious violations of public safety” and other crimes.

"These individuals acted against safety regulations, putting many people's lives in danger," he added.

The tragedy occurred at Club Pulse nightclub during a performance by popular hip-hop group DNK. While the band was playing, stage pyrotechnics ignited the ceiling, causing the fire to spread rapidly.

The nightclub was packed, and many victims died from smoke inhalation or were trampled as they tried to escape through the only door. One of the two DNK members, Andrej Gjorgjieski, was killed, while singer Vladimir Blazev was injured. A guitarist, a drummer, and a backup singer also died.

Seriously injured patients were taken to hospitals in neighboring countries such as Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia and Türkiye for treatment.

The North Macedonian government has declared seven days of national mourning and pledged a full investigation into the incident. President Gordana Siljanovska called for unity and stressed the need to tighten safety standards: "Let's unite, let's not let anyone sacrifice safety for profit. Nothing is more precious than the lives of young people."

Health Minister Arben Taravari warned that the death toll could continue to rise, as at least 20 people remain in critical condition.

Cao Phong (according to NMIM, DW)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/bac-macedonia-dieu-tra-vu-chay-hop-dem-khien-59-nguoi-thiet-mang-post338976.html