New Delhi, India – December 16, 2025 : Luthra brothers Gaurav and Saurabh, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa’s Arpora, were deported from Thailand and immediately taken into custody by Goa Police upon landing in Delhi on Tuesday. The duo faces serious charges in connection with a devastating fire on December 6 that claimed 25 lives due to alleged gross negligence and fire safety violations.
The brothers arrived via an IndiGo flight from Bangkok and were handed over to authorities at the airport. A Goa Police team, already stationed in Delhi, formally arrested them. They are expected to be produced before Patiala House Court for transit remand, paving the way for transfer to Goa for detailed interrogation at Anjuna Police Station and possible presentation in Mapusa Court.
Investigators accuse the Luthras of operating the venue without mandatory fire safety measures, including inadequate exits and flammable decorations, which exacerbated the tragedy during a crowded event featuring a fire show. Charges include culpable homicide not amounting to murder and negligence under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The deportation followed swift diplomatic efforts under the 2013 India-Thailand extradition treaty. After fleeing to Phuket hours after the incident, the brothers were detained on December 11. India’s government revoked their passports, issued an Interpol Blue Corner Notice, and coordinated with Thai authorities for their return—bringing relief to victims’ families 10 days post-tragedy.
Goa Police have arrested five managers and staff so far, with more expected. The Bombay High Court converted a related civil suit into a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), stressing accountability for the lapses.
This marks a major breakthrough in the Goa nightclub fire investigation, highlighting enforcement against safety violations in entertainment venues.
