North Macedonia trial over Pulse nightclub fire presents new licensing evidence

The criminal trial in Idrijovo continued this week over the 2023 fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, which killed 63 people and injured about 200. Prosecutors presented material evidence linking the venue to several corporate entities—Klasik DM DOO Kocani, MMMM DOOEL Kocani, Cabare Pulse and Club Pulse—as well as licensing documents, urban‑planning permits, and inspection reports. The evidence also showed that the club operated without proper authorization for a nightlife venue, using permits meant for light‑industry use.

Defendants, including former fire‑safety director Shaban Saliu and alleged managers Dejan Jovanov, Mitko Stojanov and the late Aleksandar Karadakovski, contested the admissibility of some documents, arguing they were obtained unlawfully. The court allowed portions of a 2012 inspection record to be read aloud, noting technical compliance but also irregularities in the venue’s licensing and usage. Further evidence, such as seized tickets, contracts, and financial records, was also submitted, with the prosecution indicating more material will be presented in upcoming sessions.