Puls nightclub fire trial: Prosecution concludes witness phase

The prosecution has concluded its witness testimony phase in the legal proceedings regarding the Puls nightclub fire in Kochan, which occurred on March 16, 2025. The investigation aims to determine individual and institutional responsibilities for the tragedy.

A key piece of evidence involves an expert report prepared by seven specialists from the Faculty of Civil Engineering. The report concludes that the Ministry of Economy bears no responsibility or negligence, as the ministry lacked the competence to inspect or control the specific object in question.

The indictment, currently before the Skopje Basic Criminal Court under Judge Diana Gruevska-Ilievska, involves 35 individuals and three legal entities. The accused include property owners, insurance personnel, inspectors, officials, and former mayors of the Kochan Municipality. The defense phase of the trial is expected to begin in September.