Two days after a devastating blaze ripped through a North Goa nightclub, the state government has moved swiftly, ordering the demolition of the main outlet of the establishment owned by Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra. The action comes amid mounting outrage over the tragedy that claimed 25 lives in the early hours of December 7.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant directed officials to immediately dismantle Romeo Lane, the Luthra brothers’ flagship property located in Vagator. According to authorities, the structure stands on encroached government land, making it illegal even before the fire incident.
A senior official from the Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that all machinery and manpower had been mobilised. “The shack is unauthorized and will be demolished without delay,” the official said, adding that the process was expected to be completed by Tuesday.
Interpol Issues Blue Corner Notice
In a dramatic turn, the Luthra brothers reportedly flew to Phuket, Thailand, just hours after the accident. With both now untraceable, Interpol has issued a Blue Corner notice at the request of Goa Police to help determine their whereabouts.
Fire Claims 25 Lives — Family Tragedy From Delhi
The inferno at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora killed 25 people—20 staff members and five tourists. Among the tourists were four individuals from a single family in Delhi-NCR. The heartbreaking episode includes a man who initially escaped with his wife but lost his life after re-entering the building to save her three sisters.
Cause of Fire & Arrests
Investigators have ruled out earlier claims of a cylinder explosion. Preliminary findings now indicate that indoor electric firecrackers ignited the wooden interior ceiling, causing the blaze to spread rapidly.
Police have arrested five people so far, including the Chief General Manager, Bar Manager, Gate Manager, and General Manager, as the probe into negligence and safety lapses deepens.
