Prague - Czech police have arrested an Indian restaurateur for allegedly evading 46.5 million koruny (2.9 million dollars) in income tax, the police said Friday.

Police said the 44-year-old man, who ran a lucrative restaurant and bar in downtown Prague, reported losses between 2002 and 2006 to avoid paying taxes.

He was arrested March 19 at the Prague international airport an hour before his flight was due to take off, police said.

No reason was given for the delayed announcement and police did not provide the man's name.

If convicted, he could face five to 12 years in prison. (dpa)