Goa police on Tuesday detained Ajay Gupta, a co‑owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, in connection with the fire that claimed 25 lives on 7 December 2025. Gupta was picked up in Delhi after authorities had issued a Look‑Out Circular when he could not be traced at his residence.
Reports say Gupta had been admitted to a hospital in Lajpat Nagar for a spinal ailment and was discharged shortly before being taken into custody. He is expected to be brought to Goa under transit remand to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The deadly fire at the popular North Goa nightclub has prompted authorities to intensify their probe. So far, five other individuals, including the nightclub’s general managers and staff members, have been arrested in connection with the incident. Investigators are probing possible violations of safety norms and negligence that may have contributed to the scale of the tragedy.
Meanwhile, the main owners of the nightclub, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, remain absconding. Authorities say the brothers left for Phuket, Thailand, hours after the fire, prompting police to issue a lookout notice. Interpol has also been notified with a Blue Corner Notice to locate and bring them to justice.
In a separate development, the state government demolished another property operating under the “Romeo Lane” brand at Vagator beachfront. The structure was found in violation of fire and building safety regulations. Officials say the demolition underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring strict adherence to safety norms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The incident has raised serious concerns over fire safety compliance in nightlife venues in Goa. Families of the victims have demanded accountability from the owners and management. Police officials have assured that all responsible parties, including those still absconding, will face legal action.
The detention of Ajay Gupta marks a critical step in the investigation. Authorities continue to piece together the events leading to the blaze, hoping to provide clarity to the families affected and enforce stricter safety protocols in commercial establishments across the state.
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