A court in Goa has extended the police custody of the Luthra brothers, the prime accused in the devastating nightclub fire that shook the coastal state earlier this month. The siblings will remain in police custody until December 29, as the investigation into the tragic incident continues.
The Flight and Deportation
According to police reports, the two brothers fled the country for Thailand just hours after the fire broke out in Arpora village on December 6. Their international run, however, was short-lived. Following coordinated efforts by Indian authorities, the brothers were located and subsequently deported from Thailand on December 17, leading to their arrest upon arrival in India.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
The police had sought an extension of their custody to conduct further interrogation and gather crucial evidence related to the case. The court granted the plea, allowing investigators more time to question the accused. The fire, which resulted in multiple casualties and injuries, has raised serious questions about safety protocols and regulatory compliance at entertainment venues in the popular tourist destination.
Ongoing Repercussions
The extension of custody underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the case. The incident has prompted calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety norms across hotels, clubs, and restaurants in Goa. As the police probe deepens, the focus remains on establishing the sequence of events that led to the blaze and determining the extent of liability of the establishment's owners.
The next hearing on December 29 will be a critical point in the legal process, potentially deciding whether the brothers will be sent to judicial custody or if the police will require more time for their investigation.
