Goa: The district administration on Tuesday sealed Romeo Lane, a restaurant in Goa’s Vagator area, and has now begun the demolition drive against the property.
The outlet is owned by Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, who also run Birch by Romeo Lane—the site where a devastating fire on Sunday claimed 25 lives.
A lookout circular has been issued against the Luthra brothers by the Bureau of Immigration at the request of the Goa Police. Investigators revealed that the duo fled to Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the incident.
Authorities are also preparing to issue a blue-collar notice to gather further information about their location and activities.
A blue notice, as defined by Interpol, helps collect additional information on individuals linked to criminal investigations.
Magisterial Inquiry and Regulatory Lapses Under Scrutiny
A magisterial probe is underway into the deadly fire at the Arpora restaurant-cum-club. Officials have inspected the site, summoned relevant documents, and are examining regulatory failures that allowed the club to continue functioning despite lapsed licenses.
The Goa government has said it is extending all support to the victims’ families.
Expired Licenses, Ignored Powers, and Administrative Failures
The investigation notes that the Sarpanch had approved NOCs for utilities, repairs, and trade permissions. Despite the trade license expiring in March 2024, the establishment continued operations unchecked.
Under Section 72-A of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, local authorities had the power to seal the premises but failed to act.
Police Coordinate With Interpol
The Goa Police are working with the CBI’s Interpol Division to track down and apprehend the owners. Investigators stated that the Luthra brothers’ sudden travel to Phuket demonstrates their “intent to avoid investigation.”