Skopje, 19 March 2025 (MIA) - Short-term detention of 48 hours has been ordered against another person as investigation continues into the tragedy in Kochani, bringing the total number of people subject to this measure to 17. The period of 48 hours expires tonight for some of the others placed under temporary detention. 

Chief Prosecutor Ljupcho Kocevski said Tuesday that in addition to the 16 people detained, another person will be placed under 48-hour detention.

Kocevski stressed the investigation in the Kochani nightclub fire will be swift, efficient and professional. He added that it is a complex and difficult case with many victims.

"I stand by my promise that the investigation will be swift and efficient. Nevertheless, this does not mean it will be hasty. All evidence must be lawfully collected, which means that the team of prosecutors has a cautious approach," Kocevski told Sitel.

Those in detention include former Minister of Economy Kreshnik Bekteshi and the former head of the State Market Inspectorate, Goran Trajkovski.

Short-term detention is proposed for especially complex cases, when it is necessary to gather a larger scope of evidence to determine all circumstances and the potential formal launching of an investigation.

The measure can be ordered twice before a formal investigation is launched.

Once an investigation is formally launched, the public prosecutor proposes new measures for the suspects, the short-term detention is scrapped and is usually replaced with regular detention.

Photo: MIA