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The investigation into the controversial Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, has taken a decisive turn, with its owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra set to be arrested upon arrival in India from Thailand. Authorities allege that the high-profile nightclub was illegally constructed on government land, operated without statutory licences, and functioned for years in violation of multiple regulatory norms.
According to official sources, the Luthra brothers are scheduled to land at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, at 1.55 pm on Tuesday. A Goa Police team is already stationed at the airport and will formally arrest them immediately after arrival. They will then be produced before the Patiala House Court to seek transit remand before being taken to Goa for custodial interrogation.
Nightclub Ran Without Mandatory Approvals
Investigators have found that Birch by Romeo Lane was operating without essential permissions, including fire safety clearance, environmental approvals, and licences from local civic authorities. Despite lacking statutory authorisation, the nightclub continued to host events for an extended period.
The case gained urgency following a recent fire incident at the premises. Notably, the Goa Fire Department’s report on the cause of the blaze has not yet been made public, triggering concerns over delayed disclosure and regulatory failure. Officials say the absence of fire safety approvals significantly compounds the criminal liability of the accused.
Detention in Thailand and Coordinated Return
Last week, a team from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) travelled to Thailand to coordinate the return of the accused. Acting on inputs from Indian security agencies, Thai authorities detained the Luthra brothers in Phuket nearly ten days ago.
Their return to India was delayed due to procedural formalities, including the suspension of passports, issuance of Emergency Travel Certificates, and diplomatic clearances. Officials described the coordinated operation as a reflection of the seriousness of the charges and the determination to ensure the accused face investigation under Indian law.
Illegal Encroachment on Government Land
The probe has revealed that the nightclub was allegedly constructed on 1,685 square metres of government land, which investigators say was unlawfully encroached upon by the Luthra brothers. Authorities suspect that the land grab was facilitated through the collusion of local panchayat officials, including the village sarpanch and secretary.
These officials are currently under questioning, and investigators are examining land records, lease deeds, construction permissions, and approval files to determine the extent of administrative complicity in the encroachment.
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Multiple Arrests, Key Accused Absconding
So far, six individuals, including Ajay Gupta, have been arrested in connection with the case. Another major figure under scrutiny is Surendra Singh Khosla, identified as the landowner on whose property two Romeo Lane clubs were allegedly operating under lease agreements.
Goa Police have been unable to arrest Khosla so far. According to Goa Director General of Police Alok Kumar, a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued against him on December 7. Immigration records indicate that Khosla travelled from Goa to Dubai, and investigators fear he may attempt to flee to the United Kingdom.
Probe Expands Beyond One Nightclub
With the arrest of the Luthra brothers imminent, investigators expect critical disclosures regarding illegal land occupation, forged lease documents, licensing violations, and the role of officials who enabled the operation.
Officials say the case has now expanded beyond a single establishment and raises broader concerns about land governance failures, regulatory capture, and unchecked commercial activity in Goa’s tourist belts. Authorities believe custodial questioning of the accused will be key to uncovering the full scope of the alleged conspiracy.
The coming days are expected to be crucial as the investigation enters a decisive phase.
