BANGKOK/NEW DELHI – December 15, 2025
In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the deadly fire at a Goa nightclub, brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane establishment, are poised for deportation from Thailand as early as tomorrow. The duo, who fled India hours after the blaze claimed 25 lives, face imminent handover to Indian authorities upon their return, where they will be arrested in connection with the tragedy.
Thai immigration officials have completed the bulk of the deportation proceedings, with the brothers currently held at the Immigration Detention Centre in Bangkok's Sathon district. Their detention stems from an illegal overstay in the country, a violation uncovered shortly after their arrival in Phuket on December 6—the same day the fire ravaged their Arpora-based venue, injuring six others. According to reports, the Luthras booked a flight to Thailand just 1.5 hours post-incident, prompting swift action from Indian law enforcement, including the suspension of their passports.
High-level diplomatic efforts between India and Thailand have accelerated the process over the past eight days. The Indian Embassy in Bangkok has maintained close coordination with Thai counterparts, while a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) legal team arrived in Thailand today to provide assistance and ensure a smooth extradition under the bilateral treaty. "The process is almost complete, and they will be handed over to Indian authorities soon," a source familiar with the matter told Asia News Network, adding that the brothers are expected to land in India by early next week at the latest.
Goa Director General of Police Alok Kumar confirmed the timeline, stating that the Luthra brothers are anticipated to be back on Indian soil next week, where Goa Police will formally place them under arrest. The fire at Birch by Romeo Lane, a popular nightlife spot in North Goa's tourist hub, erupted late on December 6, trapping patrons inside and leading to a chaotic evacuation. Preliminary investigations point to possible safety lapses, including overcrowding and inadequate fire exits, though a full CBI probe is underway to determine negligence or criminal intent.
The Luthras, prominent figures in Goa's hospitality scene, had built Birch into a celebrity-frequented hotspot known for its fusion of Indian and international vibes. Their abrupt flight has drawn sharp criticism from victims' families and local authorities, who accuse the owners of evading responsibility. "This deportation marks a crucial step toward justice for the 25 souls lost and their grieving families," said a spokesperson for the Goa government's crisis management cell, emphasizing the need for accountability in the state's booming nightlife industry.
As the brothers' legal team in Thailand wraps up final formalities, questions linger about potential charges ranging from culpable homicide to violations of fire safety norms. Upon arrival in India, they are likely to be remanded to judicial custody in Goa, where the case continues to unfold amid public outrage and calls for stricter regulations on commercial venues.
This story is developing, with updates expected as the deportation flight departs Bangkok.
For More News Updates Follow Us On Www.tconews.in
