Arrests Made After Deadly Fire at Goa Nightclub Claims 25 Lives

A significant law enforcement operation has been initiated in Goa following a tragic fire at a nightclub that claimed the lives of 25 individuals. The Chief General Manager of the establishment, along with three other staff members, have been apprehended in connection with the incident, as confirmed by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.

The fire broke out at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, a well-known venue located in Arpora village, North Goa, during the early hours of Sunday. In response to the calamity, the Goa police have also filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the nightclub's owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra.

In a press briefing, Chief Minister Sawant announced the formation of a committee tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire. This committee will include officials such as the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police, and is expected to submit its findings within a week. "I have convened an urgent and high-level meeting today with my concerned officers... I have taken the decision to conduct the Magistral Inquiry through the committee regarding the procedural lapses that resulted in the mischief," stated Sawant.

The Chief Minister has instructed the Director General of Police to ensure strict punitive action against those responsible, including club owners and management. He emphasised the need for accountability, especially for officials who permitted the nightclub to operate despite potential safety violations.

As a gesture of support to the victims' families, Chief Minister Sawant announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakhs (approximately £5,000) for the relatives of those who lost their lives, and ₹50,000 (around £500) for the injured. He noted that a team composed of police and health officials has been established to assist in transporting the deceased to their homes.

The tragedy has drawn attention to safety regulations within the nightlife industry in Goa. Among the deceased were four tourists and 14 club staff members, while the identities of seven others are still being verified. In connection with the incident, the local panchayat sarpanch, Roshan Redkar, has been detained due to his role in issuing a trade licence for the nightclub back in 2013.

The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the precise causes of the fire and any neglect that may have contributed to this disaster. Authorities continue to gather evidence and statements from witnesses as they work towards ensuring accountability and preventing such incidents in the future.