Owners of Goa Nightclub Flee to Phuket After Fatal Fire

The owners of a Goa nightclub, where a tragic fire resulted in the deaths of 25 individuals, are reported to have fled to Phuket, Thailand, just hours after the incident. According to a Goa Police official, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra escaped on March 10, 2024, boarding an IndiGo flight at 05:30 a.m. following the blaze that occurred shortly after midnight.

As authorities continue to search for the Luthra brothers, police have issued a Lookout Circular and have sought assistance from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to facilitate an Interpol notice. This request arises as the investigation into the fire at Birch by Romeo Lane unfolds. Meanwhile, a police team has placed notices at their residences in Delhi as part of the ongoing manhunt.

Investigation and Recovery Efforts Underway

The devastating fire claimed the lives of 25 people, including four tourists and 14 staff members. Seven additional victims have yet to be identified. Six others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. The nightclub, located near the Arpora River backwaters, featured a narrow entrance and exit, which hampered evacuation efforts during the emergency.

Anjuna Police Station officials confirmed that post-mortem examinations for the victims were completed on March 11, 2024, allowing their families to begin the grieving process. In connection with the incident, four managers of the nightclub were arrested and appeared before the Bardez District Court, where they were remanded to six days’ police custody. They are currently detained at the Anjuna Police Station lock-up and have undergone extensive questioning regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire and the whereabouts of the Luthra brothers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, announcing an ex gratia payment of ₹200,000 (approximately $2,400) for the families of each deceased individual and ₹50,000 (around $600) for the injured. Police officials suspect that the fire may have been ignited by a cylinder explosion within the premises.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and seeks answers regarding the events leading up to the tragedy. The Goa Police remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, demonstrating their commitment to holding accountable those responsible for this heartbreaking incident.