The United Hospitality Association has lodged a written complaint with the police, alleging that a couple has been visiting five to seven restaurants in the Camp and Deccan areas of Pune over the past few days. Their modus operandi involves planting insects in meals after consuming a significant portion, then threatening managers with complaints and negative publicity to avoid paying the bill. In some instances, they have also demanded compensation.
Modus Operandi
According to the complaint, the couple pretends to vomit and extorts cash to settle the matter. Restaurants report that the duo has targeted multiple eateries using the same tactic, causing distress among business owners.
Incident at Sarangi Restaurant
Yashraj Shetty, owner of Sarangi restaurant in Camp, told TOI: “One lady and two men came to the restaurant around 9 pm and ordered a lot of food. They placed a large insect in the last dish, ensuring it was not caught on CCTV. They created a ruckus, took videos, and claimed they knew FSSAI officers who would shut down the restaurant. They left without paying the Rs 3,500 bill.”
PK Biryani Outlets Targeted
The couple also targeted four PK Biryani outlets. Owner Shivaji Patil said, “The couple planted insects and caused a scene at the cash counters. They left without paying bills ranging from Rs 1,700 to Rs 1,800 at each outlet.”
Kings Persian Bistro Incident
At Kings Persian Bistro in Camp, the couple similarly extorted money from the manager.
Restaurant Industry Reaction
The restaurant industry expressed sadness over such behavior. A restaurant owner in Deccan commented, “We take utmost care to prepare food and ensure not even a strand of hair contaminates it. However, the credibility of a restaurant is questioned when scammers plant such items.”
Another owner in Camp added, “Social media is a powerful tool. Such videos surface almost daily, making it difficult to judge whether cases are genuine or attempts to defame a restaurant.”
The senior inspector of Lashkar police station told TOI that they are investigating the matter.
