A view of the charred Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at Arpora in North Goa, on December 08, 2025.
| Photo Credit: MURALI KUMAR K
Investigation into the fire accident at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at Arpora in North Goa late on Saturday (December 6, 2025) that claimed 25 lives and left six injured is progressing with a team of police officers leaving for Delhi to arrest owners of the club, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra. Meanwhile, the Goa police team arrested the fifth accused in the case.
Bharat, 49, who was responsible for managing the daily operations of the establishment on behalf of the owners, has been taken into custody.
Three suspended
The State government has suspended three officers who were prima facie found to have been involved in issuing or renewing of permits to the night club.
Several government officials involved in issuing various permits and licences to the establishment have been called for investigation to verify compliance lapses and procedural violations.
Policemen stand guard outside Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at Arpora in North Goa, on December 08, 2025.
| Photo Credit:
MURALI KUMAR K
“Investigation is progressing on priority, and further action will follow based on the findings,” said a release by the Goa Police.
Meanwhile, a fact-finding committee headed by a retired judge visited the Birch nightclub on Monday (December 8, 2025) morning. They told reporters that they would submit a report soon.
Two panels formed
The State government has also constituted two committees to conduct inquiries. One is headed by the District Magistrate of Bardez and the members include Superintendent of Police (SP), South Goa, Deputy Director for Fire and Emergency Services and Director of Forensics.
Another committee for Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) audit will inspect all night clubs and other such facilities in the State, identify violations and suggest remedial measures . It will be headed by Secretary (Revenue).
Published – December 08, 2025 05:56 pm IST
