'Deeply Shaken’: Missing Goa Club Owner Saurabh Luthra Issues First Comment As Police Launch Look-Out Circular

A widespread manhunt is underway in Goa after a catastrophic fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub left 25 people dead and many others critically injured. The club’s owner, Saurabh Luthra, has remained untraceable since the incident, prompting the authorities to issue a look-out circular. As investigators piece together the sequence of events, the management has released its first formal statement, expressing sorrow and a commitment to support victims and their families.

Absconding Owner Under Scrutiny

Saurabh Luthra, the owner of Birch by Romeo Lane, has not been located by police since the blaze. Activist Tahir Noronha described Luthra as 'like a ghost', alleging that he rarely lived in Goa and frequently avoided legal processes, often sending representatives in his place. Former staff and survivors echoed this sentiment, claiming that he visited the club only once a month and barely interacted with employees.

Until last year, Luthra had reportedly planned to expand his hospitality ventures significantly, with ambitions to launch 50 restaurants across India. His professional details list him as 'Chairman at Romeo Lane, Birch and Mama’s Buoi'.

Management Issues First Public Statement

Following mounting criticism and public anger, the management of Birch by Romeo Lane issued its first official statement after the tragedy. It said it was “deeply shaken” by the loss of lives and conveyed “profound grief” over the incident.

According to the statement:
“The management expresses profound grief and is deeply shaken by the tragic loss of lives resulting from the unfortunate incident at Birch. In this hour of irreparable sorrow and overwhelming distress, the management stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured, and conveys its heartfelt condolences with utmost sincerity. The management further affirms that it shall extend every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation to the bereaved and affected individuals, as they navigate through this period of immense anguish and adversity.”

Manager Detained As Inquiry Deepens

In a fresh development, police detained another manager linked to the nightclub, identified as Bharat. He is believed to have been responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations at Birch by Romeo Lane. His questioning forms a crucial part of the investigation aimed at establishing whether safety protocols were followed and whether any negligence contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

Fire Outbreak And Immediate Aftermath

At the time of the blaze, an estimated 100 to 200 people were present on the dance floor. When smoke and flames erupted, panic ensued, with many patrons attempting to escape through adjoining sections of the club. Some ran toward the kitchen area, where several individuals — both customers and staff — became trapped. Emergency responders retrieved victims from multiple parts of the building as the fire intensified.

Investigations Continue

Police have launched a detailed probe to determine the exact trigger of the fire and identify any possible lapses in safety compliance. A look-out circular has been issued for the Luthra brothers, and authorities are examining structural layouts, licensing records and staff accounts. The priority remains securing accountability, ensuring full cooperation from all those involved and providing immediate support to affected families.

As Goa grapples with the aftermath of one of its deadliest nightclub disasters, the focus is firmly on justice, transparency and support for survivors navigating the traumatic consequences of the tragedy.