In a major breakthrough in the investigation into one of Goa’s deadliest nightclub fire tragedies, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co-owners of the popular nightclub ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’, have been detained in Thailand after allegedly fleeing India within hours of the devastating incident that claimed 25 lives.
According to official sources, the Luthra brothers were traced and detained by Thai authorities following a coordinated operation involving Indian investigative agencies. The action was taken after Interpol alerts were issued, their Indian passports were suspended, and a formal request for international assistance was initiated. Indian officials are now working closely with Thai authorities to expedite the deportation process, ensuring the accused are brought back to India to face legal proceedings.
The tragic incident occurred when a massive fire broke out at the Goa nightclub, reportedly triggered by a blast and worsened by serious fire safety violations. Investigators have revealed that several victims, many of them staff members, were trapped inside the premises due to blocked exits and lack of emergency escape routes, leading to a high death toll.
The probe has uncovered alarming lapses in compliance, with preliminary findings indicating that the nightclub was operating without mandatory fire safety clearances. A Delhi court has already denied anticipatory bail to the accused, terming the charges as “grave and serious,” and underscoring the magnitude of negligence involved.
Investigators allege that the Luthra brothers fled the country on a flight to Phuket just hours after the fire, contradicting their claim in court that the trip was a pre-planned business visit. Their detention abroad has been described as a crucial step towards accountability in the case.
The Goa fire tragedy has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed scrutiny over fire safety norms in commercial establishments, especially nightclubs and entertainment venues. Authorities have signalled stricter enforcement and inspections to prevent such disasters in the future.