Goa Nightclub Owner Saurabh Luthra, Absconding Since Fire Tragedy, Issues First Response

Saurabh Luthra, the owner of Goa nightclub Birch by Romeo Lane, has issued a statement a day after 25 people were killed in a fire tragedy at the club.In an Instagram post, Saurabh wrote: "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."

Total Five Arrests So Far

The Goa police has so far arrested five people in connection with the blaze.They include Chief General Manager Rajiv Modak, General Managers Vivek Singh and Rajiv (Rajveer) Singhania, Gate Manager Priyanshu Thakur and another manager identified as Bharat.

FIR Against Saurabh Luthra

Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra have been identified as the owners of Birch by Romeo Lane. An FIR has been registered against the duo. They are believed to be in Delhi, and said to be absconding. Police fear they might flee the country."Police registered an FIR against Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, the owners of Birch by Romeo Lane Nightclub, under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita," PTI quoted a senior police official as saying.Saurabh Luthra has featured on Forbes India. His LinkedIn profile lists him as "Chairman at Romeo Lane, Birch and Mama's Buoi".His staff in Goa describe him as aloof, with one kitchen worker revealing that Luthra visited the club only once a month.