Kiwis off the hook after paying ‘dine and dash’ tab

PHUKET: Police yesterday released two New Zealanders who were arrested upon arrival at Phuket International Airport on Monday after the pair settled their 2-year-old unpaid restaurant bill with Blue Marine Resort and Spa in Patong (story here).

“The settlement was made yesterday evening,” Capt Yingyong Chuoykij of the Patong Police told the Phuket Gazette.

Brian Russell Finn, 54, and his son Luke Russell Finn, 24, allegedly ‘dined and dashed’ on a 15,000 baht food and beverage bill in 2013.

“The two men agreed to pay the 15,000 baht bill, while the resort’s representative agreed to drop the charges after the money was received,” confirmed Capt Yingyong.

Once the bill was settled, the pair were released.

“This is not a serious case. I am glad that both sides preferred to negotiate rather than go to court,” Capt Yingyong said.

— Kongleaphy Keam