The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into the deadly Goa nightclub fire case by attaching immovable assets worth more than Rs 11 crore linked to the operators of the controversial “Birch by Romeo Lane” nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. The latest action comes under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), further deepening the financial scrutiny surrounding the tragic incident that claimed 25 lives in December 2025.
According to officials, the newly attached properties are part of an ongoing money laundering investigation involving the nightclub’s promoters and associated entities. With the latest attachment, the total value of assets frozen or attached in the case has now crossed Rs 29 crore.
The ED investigation was launched based on multiple FIRs filed by Goa Police against the nightclub’s promoters, including allegations of forged documents, fake statutory approvals, and illegal commercial operations. Authorities claim the establishment operated without mandatory safety clearances, including a valid fire No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Investigators reportedly found that forged health NOCs and fabricated police clearance certificates were allegedly used to obtain licences and continue operations despite repeated violations. The trade licence of the nightclub had reportedly expired in March 2024, but the venue allegedly continued functioning illegally for several months afterward.
The case gained national attention after a massive fire broke out during a party at the nightclub on December 6, 2025. The blaze killed 25 people and injured several others, triggering outrage over safety lapses and alleged negligence. Preliminary findings suggested that the venue failed to comply with critical fire safety norms and emergency preparedness standards.
The ED has identified nearly Rs 29.78 crore generated through the nightclub’s operations between FY 2023-24 and December 2025 as suspected “proceeds of crime.” Officials believe the revenue was earned through illegal operations conducted without valid regulatory approvals.
Earlier this year, ED teams conducted raids across Goa, Delhi, and Haryana in connection with the case. During the searches, officials reportedly seized incriminating documents, digital evidence, and froze bank accounts worth approximately Rs 59 lakh.
The nightclub’s promoter brothers, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, had allegedly fled to Thailand shortly after the fire incident but were later deported back to India and arrested by Goa Police.
The investigation continues as agencies attempt to uncover the full financial network behind the nightclub’s operations and identify additional individuals linked to the alleged violations and money laundering activities.
