Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co‑owners of the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, have been arrested in Delhi and taken to Goa for questioning after a fire at their club killed 25 people on 6 December 2025. The brothers were tracked down in Thailand and deported to India on December 16, where Goa Police took them into custody. A Delhi court granted a 48‑hour transit remand, allowing police to transfer them to Goa for further investigation.
The fire broke out late at night during a crowded weekend event. Flames spread quickly through the club, which was decorated with highly flammable materials. Survivors described a scene of panic as smoke filled the venue and many struggled to escape. Among the victims were staff members and tourists from different parts of India.
Investigators have found that the club lacked proper fire safety measures, including emergency exits and alarms, and may have been operating without all mandatory licences. Preliminary reports suggest that a firework or electrical spark could have triggered the blaze. Authorities are examining documents, CCTV footage, and witness statements to determine responsibility.
In the days following the tragedy, several staffers and a co‑owner were arrested. Senior government officials have been suspended for permitting unsafe operations, and one of the Luthras’ other properties has been demolished as part of a wider crackdown on illegal structures and fire‑safety violations in Goa’s nightlife sector.
Police have said the questioning of the Luthra brothers will focus on safety lapses, licensing issues, and decisions made on the night of the fire. Families of the victims are demanding justice, and authorities have promised a thorough and transparent investigation.
The return and arrest of the Luthra brothers mark a crucial step in the probe, which has exposed serious safety violations in Goa’s nightclub industry. Officials have warned that stricter enforcement of fire and building regulations will follow to prevent such tragedies in the future.
