In a recent turn of events, Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, the owners of a notorious nightclub in Goa, have been detained in Thailand following a catastrophic fire that took the lives of 25 individuals. The tragic incident, which occurred at their establishment, Birch By Romeo Lane, sent shockwaves through the community and beyond.
Shortly after the incident, which took place early on a Sunday, the brothers fled to Phuket. According to India's ambassador to Thailand, Nagesh Singh, they will soon be extradited back to India. Their capture followed the refusal of a Delhi court to grant them protection against arrest and the subsequent request from Goa's state government to revoke their passports.
Although there has been no public statement from the Luthra brothers, their attorney has claimed that they are victims of a witch hunt. It is reported that the fire was ignited by fireworks being used inappropriately within the venue, leaving the majority of the victims as club staff members, alongside five tourists.
Investigators have been dense on their pursuit; earlier efforts to apprehend the brothers at their home in Delhi were thwarted as they had already left the country. As authorities intensified their search, they enlisted Interpol for additional assistance.
In the wake of the disaster, Saurabh Luthra articulated distress on social media, expressing heartfelt condolences to the victims' families and pledging comprehensive support from the nightclub's management. Indian authorities are also making swift actions, with Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant revealing that six individuals have already been arrested in connection with this case, with more arrests expected shortly.
Goa, celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and alluring beaches, attracts millions of tourists each year. The tragic incident marks a somber moment for the state as it grapples with the aftermath of this disaster.
