Police have launched an urgent hunt across the capital after four women executed a brazen dine and dash at a popular Westminster restaurant, leaving staff stunned and facing substantial losses.
The sophisticated quartet, described as well-dressed and composed, enjoyed a full meal including alcoholic beverages before vanishing without settling their bill in what appears to be a calculated act of restaurant fraud.
The Great Escape
According to Metropolitan Police sources, the women spent considerable time at the establishment, giving no indication of their intended deception. Staff reported the group appeared to be ordinary customers throughout their visit, making their sudden disappearance all the more shocking.
"This was a professional operation," one restaurant insider revealed. "They knew exactly what they were doing and left at the perfect moment when staff were distracted."
Westminster's Growing Dine and Dash Problem
This incident marks the latest in a worrying trend of restaurant bill evasion across central London. Hospitality businesses, already struggling with rising costs, are reporting increasing numbers of similar incidents.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are treating the matter seriously and are following several lines of enquiry. "We're appealing to anyone who recognises these women or has information about similar incidents to come forward," a police spokesperson stated.
Impact on Local Businesses
Restaurant owners in the Westminster area are expressing growing concern about the financial impact of such crimes. Many independent establishments operate on tight margins and cannot absorb the cost of unpaid bills.
Industry representatives are calling for stronger measures to protect hospitality businesses, including better sharing of information about serial offenders and improved security protocols.
