In brief
Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, owners of Birch By Romeo Lane nightclub where a fire killed 25 people, were detained in Thailand after fleeing India. Investigators believe fireworks triggered the blaze in Goa, raising concerns over safety protocols. The local government has promised accountability as eight people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Two brothers wanted in connection with a deadly fire at their nightclub in India's Goa state, which killed 25 people, have been detained in Thailand, India's ambassador to Thailand, Nagesh Singh, reported. Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, owners of Birch By Romeo Lane, fled to Phuket shortly after the incident occurred.
Ambassador Singh confirmed that they will be sent back to India following a court ruling in Delhi that denied them protection from arrest, and the Goa government has requested the revocation of their passports.
The brothers have yet to publicly address the situation, although their lawyer claims they are victims of a witch hunt. The tragic fire erupted early on Sunday, ignited by fireworks used inside the crowded nightclub.
Most of the victims were club staff members; among them were five tourists. Following the incident, local police raided the brothers' home in Delhi, only to discover they had already left the country, prompting a request for Interpol's assistance in locating them.
Saurabh Luthra expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, The management stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured, and pledged support and cooperation to the victims' families.
In the wake of the fire, Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that authorities had arrested six individuals related to the incident, with more arrests expected. Goa, known for its vibrant nightlife and tourism, now faces scrutiny over safety standards in its entertainment venues.
