Goa Nightclub Owners Detained in Thailand After Fatal Fire That Killed 25

Two brothers linked to a deadly nightclub fire in Goa have been detained in Thailand. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane venue, face legal action in India. The fire on December 6 killed 25 people in the North Goa town of Arpora.

Authorities confirm the brothers fled India shortly after the blaze. An Interpol notice was issued for their arrest. According to the Hindustan Times, the process to deport them back to India has now begun.

Investigation Reveals Hasty Escape Amid Rescue Efforts

The police investigation uncovered a critical timeline. Officials state the brothers booked their international flights at 1:17 AM on December 7. This was while emergency teams were still fighting the fire and rescuing victims.

They reportedly booked tickets using MakeMyTrip. A Goa official said the owners were preparing to flee as police and fire services worked at the scene. This detail has strengthened the case against them.

Legal Proceedings and Broader Fallout Intensify

A Delhi court recently declined to grant the brothers protection from arrest. Their lawyers argued they were licensees, not direct operators, of the club. They claimed the pair were on a business trip, not fleeing justice.

Meanwhile, Goa Police have arrested five managers and staff. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said an inquiry report is due within eight days. The state is also disbursing compensation to victims’ families and tightening safety audits.

The detention of the Goa nightclub owners marks a pivotal step in the investigation into the tragic fire. Their potential deportation will be closely watched as authorities seek accountability for one of the state’s deadliest incidents in recent years.

Info at your fingertips

Who are Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra?

They are the co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. The brothers left India after the fire and have been detained in Thailand.

How many people died in the Goa nightclub fire?

The fire killed 25 people. It broke out around midnight on December 6 and quickly engulfed the venue.

What charges do the owners face?

An FIR has been filed against them. They are sought in connection with the deaths and the circumstances that led to the fatal blaze.

Has anyone else been arrested?

Yes. Goa Police have arrested five managers and staff members from the nightclub in connection with the incident.

What is the government doing for victims?

The Goa government is disbursing compensation to the families of those who died. A full inquiry report is expected within the next week.

Are other venues being inspected?

Yes. State authorities have announced tightened safety audits across all entertainment venues in Goa following this tragedy.