Istanbul: In the heart of Istanbul’s Besiktas district, a devastating fire broke out at the Masquerade nightclub, claiming the lives of at least 29 individuals. The incident occurred on Tuesday while the establishment was closed for renovation work. The nightclub, situated on the ground and basement floors of a 16-story residential building, became the scene of tragedy as flames engulfed the structure.
The state-run Anadolu Agency has reported that at least eight individuals sustained injuries, with seven in serious condition and receiving hospital treatment. In the wake of the fire, authorities have detained several people for questioning, including the nightclub’s managers and the person overseeing the renovations.
Governor Davut Gul has informed the media that the cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with initial beliefs pointing to the involvement of the victims in the renovation process. The Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, extended his condolences via social media, expressing sorrow for the lives lost and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.
As the city mourns, the focus turns to the safety inspections of the entire building, ensuring the well-being of its residents and preventing future calamities. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures during construction and renovation activities.
