The Goa Police on Tuesday (December 9, 2025) detained Ajay Gupta, one of the four owners of the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora, where a catastrophic fire killed 25 people over the weekend. Gupta was picked up from Delhi after a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued against him.
A police spokesperson confirmed that Gupta is the sixth person detained in connection with the case.
“Earlier, a team had visited his Delhi residence but could not locate him. He was later found in the capital and detained,” the spokesperson said, adding that Gupta will formally be placed under arrest once transit procedures are completed.
Two Owners Still on the Run
Two co-owners brothers Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra remain absconding. Goa Police have issued a Blue Corner Notice to track their movement internationally.
Authorities also demolished an “illegal” beach shack linked to the Luthras earlier this week as part of the ongoing crackdown.
Arrests So Far
Five staff members of the nightclub have already been arrested:
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Rajiv Modak – Chief General Manager
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Vivek Singh – General Manager
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Rajiv Singhania – Bar Manager
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Riyanshu Thakur – Gate Manager
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Bharat Kohli – Employee
About the Incident
The deadly blaze broke out around midnight on Saturday (December 6) at the popular nightclub located in North Goa’s Arpora district. The fire spread rapidly, trapping staff members and tourists, and resulting in 25 fatalities one of the worst such tragedies in Goa’s nightlife sector.
The investigation continues as authorities seek accountability for alleged safety lapses, illegal construction, and negligence.
