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North Macedonia Nightclub Fire Exposes Corruption and Safety Failures

Protests continue as investigations reveal illegal licensing, severe safety violations, and allegations of bribery tied to the tragedy that killed 59 and injured over 150.

People confront police near the home of the owner of a nightclub that was the scene of a massive fire, after a vigil for the victims in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Monday, March 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)
People push a car on its side while protesting near the home of the owner of a nightclub that was the scene of a massive fire, after a vigil for the victims in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Monday, March 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Armin Durgut)
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A vehicle is overturned by people protesting near the home of the owner of a nightclub that was the scene of a massive fire, after a vigil for the victims in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Monday, March 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Armin Durgut)

Overview

  • The fire at Club Pulse in Kocani, caused by pyrotechnics during a concert, killed 59 people and injured over 150, with many victims trampled in the panic.
  • Investigations found the nightclub operating at double its legal capacity, with no emergency exits, insufficient fire equipment, flammable cladding, and no sprinkler system.
  • Authorities are probing claims that the club owners bribed officials to bypass safety regulations, with 20 arrests already made, including government officials.
  • Protests demanding justice and accountability have erupted in Kocani and Skopje, with some turning violent, reflecting widespread frustration over corruption.
  • Neighboring countries, including Serbia and Bulgaria, are providing medical aid and observing mourning, while the government has ordered nationwide inspections of entertainment venues.