Skopje, 26 March 2025 (MIA) - As part of the ongoing investigation into the deadly fire in Kochani, police searched on Tuesday the home, vehicle and two venues of the owner of the 'Pulse' nightclub, as well as the Kochani Office of the State Market Inspectorate. According to the Ministry of Interior, laptops, several mobile devices, documentation and other items were seized during the searches.

"On 25.03.2025, police officers conducted searches in the home of D.J., his vehicle "Insignia" and two venues, as well as in the State Market Inspectorate - Kochani Office. Laptop computers, several mobile devices, documentation and other items were found and seized in the home of D.J. Certain items were seized from both the vehicle and the venues, and financial documentation was also found and seized," the Ministry of Interior said in a press release.

In addition, one desktop PC, one laptop and one tablet device were seized at the State Market Inspectorate - Kochani Office, as well as all documentation related to legal entities owned by D.J.

According to the Public Prosecutor's Office (PPO), searches were carried out on Tuesday at five locations in Kochani and Skopje, during which additional electronic devices and other evidence were seized, and expert examination orders have been issued.

"Police interviews have also been conducted with persons who may have certain information. During the day, the Public Prosecutor's Office will also issue an order with the Financial Police Office to undertake certain actions related to the material operations of several legal entities, the suspects and other persons," the PPO said on Tuesday. 

Activities of the prosecutorial team include questioning more than 300 witnesses, as well as other investigative actions and appropriate expert opinions in several areas. 

The total number of suspects for the fire is 34 individuals. Investigation is launched against 27 individuals and three legal entities, and seven police officers from Shtip and Kochani are detained. 

The March 16 fire that broke out in the 'Pulse' nightclub in Kochani killed 59 people and injured around 200 other.  

Photo: MIA archive