At least 23 people died in a fire at a popular nightclub in the resort city of Goa, in western India, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and other officials announced Sunday morning.

Several tourists were among the victims of the fire, which broke out at a nightclub in Arpora, in the North Goa district, according to police, as reported by the Press Trust of India news agency. India.

“Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa. A serious fire incident in Arpora has claimed the lives of 23 people,” Sawant wrote in X.

Investigation underway

Sawant told reporters at the scene that “three or four” tourists had died. He further explained that three people died from burns, while the others died from asphyxiation.

“I visited the site of the incident and have ordered an investigation into this event,” the minister assured.

He added that “those responsible will face the strictest actions under the law; any negligence will be dealt with firmly.”

Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the shores of the Arabian Sea, attracts millions of tourists every year with its nightlife, sandy beaches, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.