Staff at a popular Hampshire curry restaurant have been left shaken after a customer allegedly ate his meal, refused to pay, and then turned violent, punching an employee and a member of the public.
Violent Confrontation on the Street
The incident occurred at the Red Rose Lounge in Waterlooville, Hampshire, on Monday, December 29. According to staff, the diner left the establishment without settling his bill. When two employees and another customer followed him outside to confront him, the situation quickly escalated.
Footage captured on a mobile phone shows the man, wearing a blue hooded jumper, in a heated altercation on the street just yards from the restaurant. The video appears to show him throwing punches at one of the staff members. It is also alleged he attempted to strike a "have-a-go hero" passer-by, a woman who tried to help.
Restaurant Shares Footage in Appeal for Justice
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Red Rose Lounge said: "It's a shame the person had a meal with us and he ran away without pay. When our colleagues tried to stop him he punched one of our staff and the local pedestrian tried to stop him and he tried to punch the lady as well."
The restaurant has now shared the clip on social media in a bid to identify the man. Regular customers have rallied behind the business, condemning the individual's actions in the comments. One person wrote: "Out of order, pay for your food," while another stated: "Such a shame, businesses are finding it really tough as it is."
A Growing Problem for Hospitality
This violent dine-and-dash incident is not isolated. It follows a recent case in Cornwall where a group of four left the Godrevy View restaurant at Tregenna Castle Resort without paying a bill totalling £319, after excusing themselves for a cigarette.
The management of the Red Rose Lounge confirmed they have approached Hampshire Police regarding the altercation. The restaurant, which was open on Christmas Day this year, expressed a hope that the man "got home safe," despite the distressing events.
