A devastating fire at a nightclub in Kocani, southern North Macedonia, has claimed the lives of 51 individuals and left around 100 others injured, as reported by Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski during a press conference. The incident occurred at approximately 2.35am local time on Sunday while a local pop group was performing.
According to Toshkovski, the fire was ignited by the use of pyrotechnics, which caused the venue’s roof to catch alight. Footage circulating on social media captures the chaotic scenes within the nightclub as patrons attempted to flee the blazing inferno.
In the aftermath, distressed family members have been seen gathering outside hospitals and Kocani’s local government offices, seeking updates and further information regarding their loved ones. Minister Toshkovski confirmed that police have apprehended one individual in connection with the incident, although specifics about the person’s role have not been disclosed.
This tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the urgent need for stringent safety measures in entertainment venues to prevent such catastrophic events in the future.