SKOPJE, North Macedonia — On Wednesday, government officials in North Macedonia announced that many nightclubs and entertainment places have been shut down after a fire killed 59 people at a pop concert. Marija Miteva, a government spokesperson, said they checked 50 venues in different cities and found that only 22 had the right licenses to operate. The facilities without valid licenses were ordered to stop all activities until they can prove they have the right paperwork.
The fire occurred during a live concert in the town of Kocani, where pyrotechnics were used. The venue had several safety and licensing problems. Authorities have detained 16 people for questioning and have interviewed over 70 individuals about the incident. This tragedy has deeply affected North Macedonia, a small Balkan country with around two million people, leading to protests and vigils across the nation.
Funeral services for the mostly young victims will take place on Thursday in Kocani, and officials confirmed that autopsies and identifications are done. Memorial services are planned in other areas as well. “Let us be calm and kind,” said Bishop Ilarion, reminding everyone to think about those who passed away and those who are injured. Among the 150 injured concertgoers, many were moved to hospitals in Europe for burn treatments. Countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Greece are helping through an EU initiative. Stojance Angelov, who leads the crisis management team, expressed deep sadness and condolences to the families. “No words can truly express how sorry I feel for those who lost their loved ones,” he said.
Leave a Reply