Luthra Brothers' Deportation to India Begins In Bangkok— What Is The Process Ahead?

Deportation procedures for the Luthra brothers from Thailand have formally begun, with the Goa Police coordinating closely with central agencies to secure their return to India. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra,

owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa's Arpora, where a fire claimed 25 lives, are currently lodged at a detention centre in Bangkok after being moved from Phuket, where they were first held following their escape from India.Thai Police had detained the brothers from a resort in Phuket on Thursday after India had moved to suspend their passports, reported local media. The brothers had fled to Phuket on the morning after the December 6 fire at their club.

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Also Read: Inside Luthra Brothers Phuket Hideout: Exclusive First Look at Hotel Room Where Goa Nightclub Owners Were Nabbed

What is the process ahead?

Local police say the detention followed a request from Indian law enforcement. According to Thai authorities, an Indian law enforcement team is also coordinating formalities for the brother’s return. This is possible due to an extradition treaty between two countries that has been in force since 2015.Thai officials stressed that due process will be followed while cooperation continues between the two countries. The Embassy of India in Bangkok is also actively coordinating with the Thai authorities regarding the ongoing case. According to sources, the two brothers were detained in Phuket following intervention by the Embassy.Also Read: Can Goa Nightclub Owners Be Extradited From Phuket? What India-Thailand Treaty Says

Authorities say they will work with their Indian counterparts to ensure a prompt lawful handover. They are currently processing the matter under local law, including steps to deport them to India.On December 6, a devastating blaze claimed 25 lives at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub, including five tourists and 20 staff members. Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra own the restaurant. Over 50 statements have been recorded so far of the persons connected with this incident, which also includes officials, workers and victims.(With agency inputs)