Controversy Erupts Over Temporary Release of Drug Trafficker Ouaihid Ben Faïza from Vendin-le-Vieil Prison

Ouaihid Ben Faïza, a former drug trafficking figure incarcerated at Vendin-le-Vieil prison since 2012, has been granted a temporary release to attend a job interview in the Lyon area. This permission, valid until 9 PM on November 24, 2025, was authorized by a judge despite the prosecutor's office in Béthune issuing a negative opinion and opposition from prison unions concerned about security and recidivism risks.

Ben Faïza, aged 52, was convicted in 2012 and had escaped custody in 2014. The permission to leave was confirmed by the chamber of application of sentences at the Court of Appeal of Douai. He left the prison by TGV early in the morning without escort or surveillance during his free movements, returning before the 9 PM deadline. This lack of escort has fueled criticism from prison union representatives like Thomas Vaugrand and David Lacroix, who argue that such leniency undermines efforts to isolate drug traffickers, particularly those held in the Organized Crime Units (QLCO).

In contrast, Ben Faïza's attorney, Me Marie Violleau, defends the decision as an essential step for his professional reintegration, arguing that controlled outings for employment opportunities support rehabilitation and reduce the chance of reoffending. She highlighted that despite his freedom of movement during this outing, measures have been taken for surveillance, including monitoring by the national territorial intelligence directorate.

This case has reignited debates about prison reform, balancing public safety with the need for prisoner rehabilitation. The controversy mainly centers around reconciling security concerns with human rights and reintegration pathways for inmates eligible for release in the coming years.

As of now, Ben Faïza remains under sentence until 2029, with his temporary release seen by officials and advocacy groups through differing lenses: a risky security breach by some, and a hopeful step toward reintegration by others.