Overview

• The fire occurred in April at the Masquerade nightclub in the Besiktas district of Istanbul, trapping workers and employees inside.
• The nightclub was located on the ground and basement floors of a 16-story residential building.
• Prosecutors have charged 13 public officials, including current and former Besiktas municipality officials and fire service officers, with negligence and abuse of office.
• The defendants face up to 17 years in prison if convicted.
• The Istanbul 33rd High Criminal Court has combined this case with the prosecution of nine other defendants, including the nightclub's business owners, who face similar charges.