New Delhi: The Goa Police on Tuesday detained Ajay Gupta, one of the four owners of Birch by Romeo Lane, the nightclub in Arpora where a massive fire on Saturday night claimed the lives of 25 people.
Police had earlier issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) for Gupta and another co-owner, Surinder Kumar Khosla, after investigators were unable to trace Gupta at his Delhi residence during a search operation.
A spokesperson for the Goa Police confirmed the development:
“We have detained Ajay Gupta, one of the owners of the nightclub. This is the sixth person to be held in connection with the case.”
He added that Gupta, who was eventually located in Delhi, will be placed under arrest once formalities to bring him to Goa are completed.
Two Co-Owners Still Missing; Blue Corner Notice Issued
While Gupta has now been detained, two other co-owners — Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra — remain on the run. Police have issued a Blue Corner Notice to help trace their whereabouts.
Authorities continue to intensify efforts to track them down as the investigation into the fire expands.
Five Staff Members Already Arrested
So far, the police have arrested five individuals linked to the nightclub’s operations:
- Rajiv Modak – Chief General Manager
- Vivek Singh – General Manager
- Rajiv Singhania – Bar Manager
- Riyanshu Thakur – Gate Manager
- Bharat Kohli – Employee
All of them are being questioned regarding violations, emergency preparedness, and possible negligence leading to the tragic blaze.
The Tragedy
The fire broke out around midnight on Saturday at Birch by Romeo Lane, located in Arpora, North Goa. The blaze spread rapidly, trapping guests and staff inside.
A total of 25 people lost their lives, making it one of the worst such incidents in the state in recent years.
Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, possible safety lapses, and whether the establishment complied with fire safety regulations.