Former North Macedonian Minister of Economy Kreshnik Bekteshi has been taken to court in handcuffs as authorities seek pretrial detention over the devastating nightclub fire in Kočani that claimed 59 lives.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office is requesting short-term detention for 14 individuals suspected of involvement in the tragedy. Chief Public Prosecutor Lupčo Kocevski stated that the suspects’ responsibility will be determined based on evidence, with potential sentences ranging from three to 20 years in prison.
Investigations are focused on allegations of bribery and illegal procurement of pyrotechnic materials. Authorities have detained 14 suspects, including Bekteshi, and will request pretrial detention for all. Initially, a 48-hour detention can be imposed, with the possibility of an extension to 30 days following the investigation.
“The police are authorized to arrest anyone, regardless of consequences, if their actions contributed to the tragedy,” Kocevski emphasized.
