Thai authorities have initiated the deportation of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where a devastating fire killed 25 people on December 6. The brothers were detained in Phuket for overstaying after India suspended their passports and issued an Interpol Blue Corner Notice.
Thai Authorities Begin Deportation Process
The Luthra brothers were produced before a Phuket court on Thursday, which cleared the groundwork for their deportation. They will now undergo mandatory medical examinations before being handed over to Indian officials.
Indian authorities stationed in Thailand confirmed their presence in Phuket to coordinate logistics for the handover. After medical clearance, the brothers will be transported to Bangkok, where the Indian Embassy will issue Emergency Travel Certificates allowing them to return home.
Passports Suspended, Interpol Blue Notice Issued
India had issued a Blue Corner Notice after the Luthras repeatedly ignored summons from Goa Police. With their passports suspended, the duo was detained in Thailand for illegally staying in the country.
Officials said the deportation is being treated as a high-priority operation, coordinated jointly by the MEA, CBI, and Goa Police.
CBI to Take Custody; Goa Police Team on Standby
A special Central Bureau of Investigation team will take custody of the brothers upon their arrival in India. Goa Police confirmed that all required legal procedures for the takeover have been completed.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the government is working closely with central agencies to ensure a swift and lawful transfer.
Investigators also confirmed that the identities of all 25 victims from the Goa nightclub fire have been established. Three government officials have been suspended for negligence.
Delhi Court Rejects Anticipatory Bail Plea
Hours before Thailand initiated deportation procedures, a Delhi court rejected the Luthras’ anticipatory bail plea. The court observed that the duo had absconded despite repeated notices and actively evaded investigation.
Their arrest upon landing in India is now virtually certain.
Tragic Fire Fueled by Safety Violations
The catastrophic blaze at “Birch by Romeo Lane” nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, was accelerated by flammable interior décor and violations of fire-safety norms. The club lacked adequate emergency exits and fire-resistant materials.
Goa’s Chief Minister said a statewide audit of nightlife establishments is underway to enforce compliance and prevent future tragedies.
