The Enforcement Directorate has attached immovable properties worth approximately ₹11 crore in a money laundering probe linked to the “Birch by Romeo Lane” nightclub in Arpora, Goa, where a fire incident on December 6 last year claimed 25 lives, including several tourists.
The action has been taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, based on FIRs registered by Goa Police at Anjuna and Mapusa police stations against Saurabh Luthra, Gaurav Luthra and others. The fatal incident has now led to wider scrutiny of alleged forged documents, licence violations and suspected proceeds of crime linked to the establishment.
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Fake Documents and Licence Violations Under Probe
Investigators have alleged that multiple forged and fabricated documents were used in the operation of the nightclub. These reportedly included fire safety NOCs, health certificates and police clearance documents allegedly used to obtain licences and continue operations.
Preliminary findings indicate that GS Hospitality Goa Arpora LLP operated the establishment without mandatory statutory approvals. Officials said several key licences had already expired, but operations allegedly continued despite the lapse.
The case has raised serious questions over compliance failures, with investigators examining whether violations of safety and licensing norms contributed to the fatal fire incident and later financial irregularities now under ED scrutiny.
₹29.78 Crore Revenue Classified as Proceeds of Crime
According to the investigation, the establishment generated revenues of around ₹29.78 crore between FY 2023-24 and FY 2025-26 till December 6, 2025. The agency has classified the entire amount as proceeds of crime for the purpose of the ongoing probe.
Earlier search operations conducted in January 2026 led to the seizure of crucial documents and digital devices, along with the freezing of bank accounts worth around ₹59 lakh.
The ED had previously issued a provisional attachment order of approximately ₹17.45 crore in the case. With the latest attachment, the total value of attached and frozen assets has risen to about ₹29.05 crore.
Financial Trail and Beneficiaries Under Scanner
Officials said the agency is now examining the wider financial structure behind the nightclub operations. Investigators are trying to identify the actual beneficiaries, possible use of shell companies and layering of funds through banking and digital channels.
Sources said forensic analysis of digital devices and banking records is underway to map the transaction chain, trace money flows and identify intermediaries allegedly connected to the network.
Officials clarified that the action is based on preliminary findings and that final conclusions will depend on due legal process and judicial review. The probe remains at a crucial stage, with agencies indicating that further attachments, additional names and possible arrests cannot be ruled out as the investigation progresses.
