Belgium has issued a wanted notice for Smail Ouennas, a 39-year-old man who escaped from a psychiatric center in Tournai. The Belgian federal police announced the alert on Wednesday, September 9, after Ouennas failed to return to the facility following temporary permission to leave. Tournai is located about 20 kilometers from the French city of Lille. Authorities have warned that Ouennas poses a potential threat to others and urge the public not to approach him if seen, but instead to immediately contact the police.
Ouennas had been under psychiatric care at the center since 2019 after being hospitalized following an attempted murder. The police have emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that the individual has a history of violent behavior. The temporary leave granted to Ouennas was likely part of a structured program that allows certain patients to engage in short-term outings under supervision, though the specifics of his release were not detailed in the official statement.
The escape has raised concerns among local authorities and residents in the area, who are being advised to remain vigilant. Police are actively searching for Ouennas and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident underscores the challenges faced by psychiatric facilities in managing patients with a history of aggression, particularly when they are allowed limited freedom outside the facility.
Authorities have not yet provided details on how the escape occurred or whether there are any suspects involved in helping Ouennas flee. The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates are expected as the investigation continues. For now, the public is being asked to remain cautious and to report any sightings to the police without direct contact with the individual.
Belgian Man Fleeing Psychiatric Center After Attempted Murder Wanted
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Original sources:
- 🇫🇷BFMTV



