Over a hundred have been injured
More than 50 people have been killed after a fire broke out in a nightclub in North Macedonia last night, officials say.
The incident happened in Kocani, a town around 100km away from the capital Skopje, reportedly in a club known as Pulse club.
The inferno is said to have broke out at around 3am local time (2am GMT).
Social media footage has shown the building swallowed by flames.
There were around 1,500 people attending the club which was holding a concert for a hip-hip band popular in the country known as ADN.
Local media has suggested a link between pyrotechnic devices at the show and the fire, with footage allegedly showing sparks from the stage catching on the ceiling before spreading.
North Macedonia’s Interior Minister Pance Toskovski has said some arrests have been made while the incident is investigated further.
The Prime Minister of the country has also released a statement on Facebook.
He wrote: “With deep sorrow I received the news of the terrible tragedy in Kocani. This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia. The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable.
“I urge all relevant institutions – health services, police, local authorities – to take immediate action to help the injured and support the affected families. The government is fully mobilized and will do whatever is necessary to deal with the consequences and determine the causes of this tragedy.
“During the day, after considering the circumstances of the competent institutions, I will address the public with more information on the steps taken.
“In these times of deep sorrow, when our hearts are broken with pain over this horrible tragedy, I call for togetherness, togetherness, humanity and accountability.
“May God be with the families of the victims and the injured and with the people of Macedonia.”
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