Goa Nightclub Owners Flee to Thailand After Deadly Fire

A deadly fire at a popular Goa nightclub has claimed 25 lives. The owners of Birch by Romeo Lane fled the country hours after the tragedy. The blaze occurred in the Arpora area of North Goa around midnight on December 6.

Goa Police have initiated a major investigation and made several arrests. According to ANI, the club’s co-owners, brothers Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, escaped to Phuket, Thailand. An international search is now underway.

International Manhunt Launched for Fugitive Owners

Authorities are taking serious action to locate the missing owners. The Interpol has issued a Blue Corner Notice against the Luthra brothers. This notice seeks their location and provisional detention for extradition.

Back in India, legal maneuvers have begun. The brothers have filed an anticipatory bail petition in Delhi’s Rohini Court. This hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10, as confirmed by agency reports.

Co-Owner Detained as Police Round Up Club Staff

Another co-owner, Ajay Gupta, was detained by police in New Delhi on Tuesday. Gupta was questioned by a Goa Police team that traveled to the capital. He stated he was “only a partner” when brought in for questioning.

Formal arrest procedures for Gupta are now in progress. Police have also issued a Look Out Circular for another owner, British citizen Surinder Kumar Khosla. Five club staff members are already in custody for their alleged roles.

The search for the fugitive owners underscores the severity of the investigation into the Goa nightclub fire. Authorities are determined to hold all responsible parties accountable for the tragic loss of life.

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Q1: What happened at the Goa nightclub?

A massive fire broke out at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. The incident occurred around midnight on December 6. It resulted in the deaths of 25 people.

Q2: Who are the Luthra brothers?

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra are the co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub. They fled to Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the fire. Interpol is now assisting in the search for them.

Q3: What is a Blue Corner Notice?

A Blue Corner Notice is an Interpol request to locate a person of interest. It helps police in member countries share information. The notice is a step before potential extradition proceedings.

Q4: Has anyone been arrested yet?

Yes. Goa Police have arrested five staff members from the nightclub. Another co-owner, Ajay Gupta, was detained in Delhi and faces arrest. Investigations are actively continuing.

Q5: Where did the fire take place?

The fire occurred in the coastal state of Goa, a major Indian tourist destination. Specifically, it was at a nightclub in the Arpora area of North Goa. The venue was reportedly a popular spot.