Goa Fire: Passports of Luthra Brothers Suspended
The passports of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa where a major fire killed 25 people on December 6, have been officially suspended by the Ministry of External Affairs. The suspension follows a request from the Goa Police to restrict the brothers’ international travel while the investigation continues.
Brothers left for Thailand hours after the fire
According to police officials, the Luthra brothers left for Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the incident, even as rescue operations were still underway. Their travel records showed they exited India within hours, prompting authorities to escalate action to trace them.
Interpol notice issued; police team preparing to travel
An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has already been issued to help locate the brothers. Goa Police have announced that a special team will travel to Thailand soon to coordinate with local authorities and pursue their return for interrogation.
Court denies interim protection; charges filed
A Delhi court denied interim anticipatory bail to the two men, with the next hearing scheduled soon. Goa Police have registered serious charges against them, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and conspiracy. Several staff members associated with the nightclub have already been arrested as part of the probe.
Investigation continues amid public outrage
The December 6 fire has triggered significant public anger, with questions raised over alleged safety violations and crowding at the venue. Investigators are examining structural compliance, fire safety measures, and operational lapses at the nightclub.
