Luthras’ within an hour booked tickets as fire spread in Goa nightclub: How brothers were tracked down to Phuket

Goa Police have found that the Luthra brothers booked flight tickets to Phuket, Thailand at 1:17 a.m. on December 7, even as emergency teams were struggling to control the massive fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa.

Investigators traced the duo’s escape route through Indian immigration records, which confirmed that both had left the country for Phuket. This information was immediately shared with Thai authorities, who then verified their entry into Thailand. Following the confirmation, Thai law-enforcement agencies launched a search operation across the island.

According to officials, the brothers had shifted from their first accommodation, complicating the search. After multiple raids, Thai police managed to locate and detain them. They are now in Thai custody, where legal formalities are underway.

Authorities in both countries are coordinating the documentation needed for India to bring them back. A senior government source said they are expected to be deported soon. Their passports have already been suspended by Goa Police.

The investigation into the deadly nightclub blaze—which erupted during a dance act where electronic fireworks were used—has revealed that the owners booked their flights to Thailand while emergency personnel were battling the fire. Goa Police also confirmed on X that the tickets were purchased on MakeMyTrip shortly after the blaze began.

Meanwhile, a Rohini Court on Wednesday refused to grant the brothers immediate interim protection from arrest. The duo, seeking four weeks of anticipatory bail on medical grounds, told the court they were “also victims.”