13 Turkish Officials Charged Over Fatal Istanbul Nightclub Fire

The fire at the Masquerade nightclub, which was under renovation, resulted in the death of 29 people and has led to charges of negligence and abuse of office.

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.