North Macedonia detains 13, closes 80% of nightclubs after fire kills 59

Following a devastating fire at Club Pulse in Kocani that killed 59 people and injured nearly 200, North Macedonian authorities have initiated widespread inspections of nightlife venues, leading to the closure of over 80% of discotheques for failing to meet safety standards. The fire, caused by pyrotechnics during a performance, revealed serious regulatory violations, including the club's lack of proper licenses, emergency exits, and fire safety measures. Government officials announced that only 22 out of 50 inspected venues held valid licenses, prompting calls for revocations and legal penalties against non-compliant establishments. As investigations continue, 13 individuals, including police officers and venue operators, have been detained, with a national mourning period declared in response to the tragedy. Protests against corruption and unsafe practices have erupted across the country, emphasizing the systemic failures that contributed to the disaster. Funerals for the deceased are set to take place, with many victims being young concertgoers.