Kazakh Dancer Without Business Visa Caught in Deadly Goa Nightclub Fire That Killed 25

A Kazakh dancer named Kristina was performing at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in Goa when a devastating fire erupted, resulting in 25 fatalities. According to police statements on Tuesday, she did not possess the required business visa to legally perform in India.

Social media footage captured the moment electric firecrackers ignited, causing flames to spread from the nightclub's roof. The video shows Kristina, who was performing a belly dance, and band members frantically evacuating as the fire rapidly intensified.

A senior official from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) revealed to PTI that Kristina had submitted an application for a business visa, but had not yet received approval. The officer emphasized that without such authorization, she was not permitted to engage in professional performances within India.

When questioned about the matter, Superintendent of Police (FRRO) Arshi Adil stated they were "still inquiring into whether she had a business visa."

Known on Instagram as Kristina Sheikh, the professional dancer has amassed a following of 272,000 users. Content on her profile suggests she had been performing at the nightclub on a regular basis.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant indicated to reporters that electric firecrackers appeared to be the primary cause of the tragedy, which claimed the lives of 20 staff members and five tourists.

Witnesses reported that the high number of casualties was likely due to the nightclub's narrow exits. The establishment is situated in the backwaters of the Arpora river.