The owners of Birch by Romeo Lane, the North Goa nightclub where 25 people died in a fire caused by fireworks on December 6, reportedly ran 42 shell companies under the cover of their restaurant and entertainment empire, according to report.
The companies, all registered at a single address in north-west Delhi, were established over the past two years. Brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, directors of all these entities, co-own the nightclub in Arpora where the tragedy occurred.
Interpol Blue Corner Notice Issued for Luthra Brothers
The Luthra brothers are now the subjects of an Interpol Blue Corner notice, issued to track their movements and prevent them from fleeing further. Authorities believe the Delhi-based businessmen escaped to Phuket, Thailand, just hours after the deadly blaze.
“The notice would help trace the accused and also prevent them from migrating to any other country from their present destination,” a senior Goa police officer told TOI.
Timeline of Escape Under Scrutiny
The timeline of the brothers’ exit is a key part of the investigation. Police first logged the fire alert at 12:04 am on Sunday, December 7. By 5:30 am, the Luthras reportedly boarded IndiGo flight 6E 1073 from New Delhi to Phuket. Later that evening, a domestic lookout circular (LOC) was issued against them.
Goa Government Seeks Extradition
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that authorities are making efforts to secure the brothers’ return. A police team is expected to travel to Thailand under the India-Thailand extradition treaty, in effect since 2015.
Other Key Figures Also Under Watch in Goa Fire Case
The investigation has expanded to include other individuals linked to the nightclub. A lookout circular has been issued for Surinder Kumar Khosla, a British national and co-owner of the property that housed the nightclub.
“Khosla is a British citizen,” confirmed Deputy Inspector General of Police Varsha Sharma during a press briefing in Anjuna.
In addition, the regional passport office in New Delhi has issued notices to the absent Luthra brothers, requiring explanations within seven days on why their passports should not be impounded.
Arrests of Nightclub Management Staff in Goa Fire Case
So far, five individuals involved in the nightclub’s management have been arrested:
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Chief General Manager Rajiv Modak
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General Manager Vivek Singh
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Bar Manager Rajiv Singhania
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Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur
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Employee Bharat Kohli
Central Agencies Investigate Financial and Operational Links
DIG Varsha Sharma stated that the Goa Police are coordinating with the CBI and Interpol to ensure the Luthras’ return. Authorities are also examining the financial dealings of all accused to uncover potential irregularities or links to the incident.
