Sign In
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
New Delhi: Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, the owners of the Goa nightclub where a deadly fire killed 25 people last week, were detained in Thailand's Phuket on Thursday, according to sources. The Luthra brothers had fled to Thailand shortly after the blaze erupted at 'Birch by Rome Lane' nightclub in Arpora in North Goa late Saturday night. The duo has been taken to the airport by Thai authorities for legal formalities and will be brought back to India soon, said officials.
As many as 25 people were killed and several others injured after a massive fire broke out at 'Birch by Rome Lane' nightclub in Arpora on Saturday. The blaze erupted when several tourists were enjoying a musical event. The incident that took place at the peak holiday season has raised safety concerns. The Luthra brothers face a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and negligence. Earlier, a blue corner notice was issued against them.
While the exact cause of the fire is being ascertained, initial reports suggest the incident took place due to a short circuit. The rescue operation was delayed as the access road to the nightclub was narrow, making it difficult for fire engines to pass through. Fire extinguishers or safety alarms at the premises were also not functional.
Luthras' passports suspended
Meanwhile, the Indian authorities suspended the passports of the Luthra brothers and will now press for their deportation to bring them to trial in Goa. Confirming the suspension, the Goa Police said this was done to prevent the duo from proceeding further from Thailand, to a third country and hiding there. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pramod Swant assured stern action against the culprits.
Luthra brothers fled to Thailand when club was on fire
The Luthra brothers had reportedly fled to Thailand when the nightclub was on fire. According to reports, the fire call was received around 11.30 pm and the duo booked a flight ticket for Phuket at around 1.17 am.
'Went to Thailand for business meeting'
The duo had filed an anticipatory bail plea in a Delhi court on Wednesday, saying they are licensees and not actual owners of the building where the club was located. They requested four weeks of transit anticipatory bail so that they would not be arrested immediately upon their return to Delhi. The due also said they left India and flew to Thailand for a business meeting and did not flee due to the fire. They also said in the petition that they were not present at the club at the time of the incident.
