Luthra Brothers Brought Back to India After Deportation From Thailand

Gaurav Luthra (44) and Saurabh Luthra (40), owners of the Goa nightclub where a devastating fire killed 25 people earlier this month, were brought back to India on Tuesday after being deported from Thailand.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra arrive in Delhi after being deported from Thailand in connection with the deadly Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people.

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The brothers had fled to Phuket on an IndiGo flight just hours after a massive fire broke out at their nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane, in north Goa’s Arpora area on December 6. The fire claimed the lives of 25 people, including 20 staff members and five tourists.

Thai authorities detained the Luthras in Phuket on December 11 when they stepped out of their hotel for a meal. They were subsequently taken to Bangkok and deported to India. An IndiGo flight carrying the brothers landed in Delhi around 2 pm on Tuesday.

The accused will be produced before a Delhi court, where investigating agencies are expected to seek their transit remand to Goa.

Serious Charges Against Club Owners

A case of culpable homicide and negligence has been registered against the brothers, who own and operate multiple cafes and nightclubs across the country. Investigators allege that Birch by Romeo Lane was operating in violation of mandatory safety norms, which significantly contributed to the scale of the tragedy.

Following their escape from India, an Interpol Blue Corner Notice was issued to track their whereabouts.

What Caused the Deadly Fire

The fire erupted around midnight during a crowded weekend event when electronic fireworks used during a dance performance ignited the club’s roof. Police said flammable materials, including bamboo used extensively in the club’s construction, caused the flames to spread rapidly.

Witnesses reported that over 100 people were present on the dance floor when the fire broke out. In a desperate attempt to escape, several patrons and staff ran toward the kitchen downstairs, where they became trapped.

The nightclub’s location near the backwaters of the Arpora River, coupled with narrow entry and exit points, allegedly delayed rescue operations and hampered evacuation efforts.

Ongoing Investigation

Goa Police have so far arrested five people, including managers and staff members of the nightclub, in connection with the case. The investigation continues as authorities examine safety lapses and accountability for one of the deadliest nightclub fires in recent years.