Brothers Deported from Thailand After Goa Nightclub Fire Tragedy

Brothers Return to India Following Deportation

New Delhi: Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, the brothers who co-own the nightclub in Goa where a devastating fire claimed 25 lives, returned to India on Tuesday after being deported from Thailand.

Upon their arrival at the airport, Indian authorities took them into custody for legal proceedings. Reports indicate that they will soon appear before a court in Delhi.

The tragic incident occurred on December 6 at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, raising significant concerns regarding fire safety compliance and management oversight.

Charges of culpable homicide and negligence have been filed against the Luthra brothers, aged 44 and 40. Investigators assert that the nightclub was operating without adhering to essential safety regulations, which exacerbated the disaster.

Their deportation came after their detention in Phuket on December 11, where the Indian mission worked closely with Thai officials. The Indian government revoked their passports and provided a dossier to Thai authorities detailing their alleged involvement in the incident and formally requesting their return.

An Interpol Blue Corner Notice was issued for the brothers shortly after they fled the country following the fire.

In connection with the case, Goa Police have arrested five individuals, including managers and staff from the nightclub, with the possibility of further arrests as the investigation continues.

On Monday, the Bombay High Court transformed a civil suit against the nightclub into a public interest litigation, emphasizing the need for accountability in this tragedy.

India and Thailand established an Extradition Treaty in 2013, which became effective in June 2015.