Day of mourning in Bosnia for North Macedonia nightclub fire victims

The government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina declared Tuesday, March 18, as a Day of Mourning during an emergency session held yesterday. Similarly, the government of the Republika Srpska has also declared a Day of Mourning. Additionally, Brcko District Mayor Sinisa Milic issued a decision to observe the day in the district as well.

In a show of solidarity, the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo (KCUS) and the University Clinical Center of Republika Srpska (UKC RS) have offered medical assistance if needed for the injured in North Macedonia.

The fire at the nightclub in Kocani was caused by sparks from pyrotechnic devices used for light effects, which ignited the club's roof.

The Macedonian Minister of Health stated that 20 of the injured remain in critical condition.

Police have detained the club owner and taken over 20 people in for questioning. Authorities have launched an investigation into possible corruption, as the nightclub was operating without a valid license. At the time of the fire, there were 500 people inside, despite only 250 tickets being sold.

Investigations revealed serious safety violations, including the absence of a fire hydrant system and an inadequate number of fire extinguishers. The pyrotechnic devices were used illegally, and there was no formal contract between the event organizers and the performing group.

Flags on government buildings across North Macedonia have been lowered to half-mast as the country enters seven days of mourning.

Leaders and officials from across the region and the world have expressed condolences to North Macedonia in the wake of the tragedy.