A major crackdown has been launched following a massive fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in the Arpora area of Goa. Initial investigations revealed negligence on the part of the club, and one of the nightclub owners has been arrested.
Goa Nightclub Owner Arrested
Panaji: Action has intensified following the devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in the Arpora area of Goa. Initial investigations revealed that the club had disregarded safety and fire safety regulations. Following this, one of the nightclub owners was arrested. A total of three people have been booked in connection with the incident so far.
Goa Police have registered a case of culpable homicide and negligence. Officials said that if fire safety norms were not followed, serious charges would be brought against the club owners. The nightclub has been sealed, and questioning of several people is underway.
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The investigation revealed that the club failed to comply with several mandatory fire safety regulations. Basic safety measures such as emergency exits, ventilation, and alarm systems were found to be inadequate. This negligence prevented people from escaping in time after the fire broke out, leading to multiple deaths.
A joint team of the fire department and police is investigating the entire incident. Initial indications suggest the fire may have started in the kitchen area or the electrical section. Police clarified that the actual cause of the fire will only be determined after the investigation report is complete.
So far, 25 deaths have been confirmed in the incident that occurred on Saturday night. The deceased include 14 club employees and 4 foreign tourists. The identification process for the remaining 7 people is ongoing. Some bodies are so badly damaged that DNA samples have been taken for identification.
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Following this incident, other nightclubs and cafes in Goa may also come under scrutiny for safety checks. Officials have warned that violations of safety regulations will not be tolerated.
The Chief Minister of Goa described the incident as tragic and said that a thorough investigation would be conducted into the entire matter. He also ordered a review of the nightclub's permits, fire safety regulations, and building construction standards.
