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Trial Opens in North Macedonia Over Kocani Nightclub Fire That Killed 63

The judge expects a protracted case, with 35 people plus three companies facing public-safety charges.

Overview

  • Proceedings began in a large courtroom at the Idrizovo facility near Skopje, with many victims’ relatives in attendance.
  • Prosecutors say 35 individuals and three companies are charged, after 15 prosecutors collaborated on the indictment.
  • Those on trial include the club owner, three former Kocani mayors and other ex-officials accused of serious crimes against public safety.
  • Investigators report that pyrotechnics ignited a flammable ceiling during a packed show, leaving 63 dead and nearly 200 injured.
  • Authorities transferred 115 badly burned patients to EU hospitals for treatment, while weekly demonstrations in Skopje continue to demand accountability.