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In Goa, police have made a fifth arrest in the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub fire that claimed 25 lives. Bharat Kohli, a Delhi-based employee, has been taken into custody for questioning. The investigation has already led to multiple arrests, and authorities continue to probe safety violations, fire causes, and management negligence.
Fifth Arrest in Goa Nightclub Blaze, Delhi-Based Staff Held by Police
New Delhi: Another arrest has been made in Delhi in connection with the devastating nightclub fire that occurred in Arpora, Goa, on Saturday night. Goa Police have taken Bharat Kohli, an employee of the nightclub, into custody. The fire has claimed the lives of 25 people. Kohli's arrest could bring a new dimension to the investigation. He will be brought to Goa for further questioning.
According to sources, Bharat Kohli is a resident of the Sabzi Mandi area in Delhi. He was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the nightclub. His involvement came to light during the questioning of a club manager by the police. Following this, Kohli was arrested and taken to Goa for further investigation.
Goa nightclub fire caused by electric fireworks; Click here for details
The fire broke out late at night at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora. Most of the victims were club employees. The incident has raised serious questions about Goa's tourism industry and safety standards. Most of the deaths were due to suffocation from smoke inhalation. Narrow passages and small doorways hampered rescue efforts.
Several arrests have already been made in this case. Those arrested include:
Rajeev Modak, the club's Chief General Manager
Vivek Singh, General Manager
Rajeev Singhania, Bar Manager
Priyanshu Thakur, Gate Manager
All four accused were produced in court and remanded to six days of police custody.
The North Goa district administration also sealed two other clubs belonging to the Romeo Lane chain in Vagator and Assagao, as well as a coastal dhaba. Officials stated that action was taken against these properties as they were also involved in controversies.
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Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that the preliminary investigation revealed that the club did not adhere to fire safety standards. The fire was caused by fireworks inside the club. The Chief Minister directed Chief Secretary V. Kandavelu and Director General of Police Alok Kumar to identify the officials who allowed the club to operate despite the violation of regulations. Investigation Underway
A team of Goa Police has begun questioning Bharat Kohli, who was arrested in Delhi. The club manager and other employees are also being questioned. Officials said that all those responsible will be brought to justice and every aspect of the incident is being investigated.