Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers poised for deportation from Thailand
Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers poised for deportation from Thailand
Goa fire linked Luthra brothers set for deportation from Thailand as authorities coordinate return to India.
Fugitive brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, Goa, are poised to be brought back to India from Thailand as part of an ongoing investigation into a deadly blaze that left 25 people dead last week. The brothers fled to Phuket hours after the fire broke out late Saturday night, December 6, in Goa, raising questions about safety and regulatory gaps in Goa’s nightlife scene. They reportedly flew from Delhi to Phuket on an IndiGo flight on the morning after the tragedy, triggering a swift diplomatic and legal response.
The deportation process has begun, with officials indicating the brothers could return to India by Sunday as authorities work through the logistics with Thai officials. Their passports were canceled by the Ministry of External Affairs, and an Interpol Blue Corner notice was issued, illustrating the seriousness with which Indian authorities are treating the case. Local authorities in Delhi had already denied the brothers anticipatory bail, underscoring the legal peril they face if they return to Goa to face investigations.
Goa Police, in coordination with the Central Bureau of Investigation, had been pursuing a joint operation with Thai authorities, signaling a multi-agency effort to ensure accountability. The nightclub itself had reportedly operated with questionable permissions, and investigators have highlighted lapses in licensing and safety practices in the wake of the tragedy. The fire victims included four members of a Delhi family—three sisters and the husband of another—whose deaths have intensified the demand for accountability and a thorough review of Goa’s nightlife regulations.
As the deportation process moves forward, observers say the case could have lasting implications for nightlife governance in Goa, with authorities promising a crackdown on illegal clubs and a push for tighter compliance with licensing, safety, and fire-prevention standards. The final confirmation on the date, time, and specific flight details remains pending, but the message from officials is clear: those responsible will be brought back to face Indian justice.
Cover image source: Week after Goa nightclub fire, Luthra brothers set to be deported from Thailand, likely today 🔗
