The investigation into the deadly nightclub fire in Arpora, Goa, that claimed 25 lives has intensified, with central agencies stepping in to track down the prime accused. The club owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, who allegedly fled to Thailand hours after the tragedy, are now facing an Interpol Blue Notice at the request of the Goa Police through the Central Bureau of Investigation.

Officials confirmed on Tuesday that the Goa Police formally approached the CBI to initiate the Interpol process. Sources further indicated that both accused may be extradited from Thailand to India later today and are likely to be brought to Bengaluru airport from Phuket around 4 pm under tight security arrangements. A special unit of the Bengaluru Police has already been deployed at the airport.

What is an Interpol Blue Notice?

An Interpol Blue Notice is issued to collect additional information about a person’s identity, location, or activities in connection with a criminal investigation. Unlike a Red Notice, it does not authorize arrest but is used to trace suspects and monitor their movements. In India, the CBI acts as the nodal agency for all Interpol communications.

A Red Notice, which allows for provisional arrest, can only be issued after a chargesheet is filed and a non-bailable warrant is secured against the accused.

Fire killed 25 people, mostly staff

The massive fire broke out late Saturday night at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, around 25 km from Panaji. The incident claimed 25 lives, including 20 nightclub employees and five tourists. Of the tourists, four were from Delhi. Five injured victims are currently undergoing treatment at the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital.

Goa Police had earlier confirmed that the Luthra brothers left the country within hours of the incident. A senior officer stated that coordination with the CBI’s Interpol wing was underway to secure their detention at the earliest possible stage.

Authorities are now preparing for legal proceedings following the possible extradition, as the case continues to draw national attention over serious lapses in safety and alleged violations by the nightclub management.