North Macedonia is in mourning as funeral processions take place for the victims of the devastating nightclub fire in Kocani.
At least 30 victims are being laid to rest in Kocani and nearby towns, with families gathering since morning to say their final goodbyes. The tragedy, which claimed 59 lives and left over 150 injured, was sparked when fireworks set off during a concert ignited a blaze inside the overcrowded Pulse nightclub.
To ensure privacy for grieving families, authorities have banned drones from filming the funerals, while media outlets have been urged to avoid sensationalist coverage.
INVESTIGATION WIDENS
Meanwhile, an expanding investigation has led to more arrests. Seven police employees are accused of turning a blind eye to the club’s lack of safety permits, while 18 others, including event organisers and officials, have been placed in short-term detention.
Prosecutors are now probing bribery and corruption linked to how the club stayed open and how the fireworks were obtained. More arrests could follow as authorities dig deeper into the country’s worst nightclub disaster.
