Tragic inferno in Kocani: 59 dead and protests against club operators!

Tragic inferno in Kocani: 59 dead and protests against club operators!

In the northern Macedonian city of Kocani there was a devastating tragedy on Sunday. At least 59 people died in a fire in the “Pulse” discotheque, predominantly young people. Among the victims is the musician Andrej Gjorgjieski from the hip-hop group DNK. This showed unusual courage when he repeatedly returned to the burning club during the fire to save young fans. According to reports from the British medium of the independent, Gjorgjieski is said to have attempted to free others from burning hell, which ultimately cost him life while he saved significant lives. His manager praised him as a "good and humble person", whose bravery and selfless action stood out in the last moments of his life.

protests and funeral celebrations after the catastrophe

The fire, which was probably triggered by pyrotechnics during a concert, left numerous injuries. Over 150 people sometimes suffered severe burns, and many were evacuated to neighboring countries, including Austria. In the days after the disaster there were protests in Kocani, in which demonstrators demolished a café that belongs to the operator of the club. A feeling of anger and grief became visible, while many people held mourning celebrations for the lost lives, and Bishöfe spoke out of their condolences to the relatives of the victims, as the Catholic Church in Northern Macedonia said in a statement.

In response to the tragedy, the Mayor of Kocani, Ljupco Papazov, announced his resignation. North Macedonia's Interior Minister Pance Toskovski confirmed that the disco was apparently operated without valid operating license. The judiciary has already initiated investigations and arrested 20 suspects, including government officials and the club manager. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski was concerned about the loss of many young life and promised a comprehensive examination to ensure that such an incident does not repeat itself. The entire Balkans are characterized by grief and sympathy, while Northern Macedonia has proclaimed a seven -day state mourning.