An unexpected outburst by a woman reportedly suffering from psychiatric illness disrupted the Tokan neighbourhood in Abomey-Calavi, Benin, on Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred at a local sales kiosk known as “Chez Diallo,” where she damaged several items and physically assaulted those present.
Eyewitnesses say the woman, believed to be around 35 years old, stormed into the kiosk and began tearing through equipment and goods before turning violent toward the occupants. The disturbance quickly drew the attention of nearby residents, who rushed to the scene to intervene.
According to a report posted by Canal3 Benin on Facebook, locals were able to restrain the woman without serious injury. After a tense few minutes, she appeared to calm down and eventually fell asleep at the scene.
“She was shouting and throwing things. People were scared, but thankfully no one was seriously hurt,” said one resident, who witnessed the scene unfold.
The kiosk, known for serving dozens of customers daily, was left in disarray, with chairs, tables, and appliances visibly damaged.
Initial investigations revealed that the woman had recently been admitted to the Saint Camille psychiatric centre. According to sources at the scene, she had left the facility unexpectedly and without clearance.
It remains unclear how she managed to leave the centre unsupervised.
The incident has reignited conversations around mental health care in Benin, particularly the challenges of monitoring patients and preventing such public outbursts.
Health officials have yet to issue a formal statement, but residents are calling for reinforced safeguards to protect both vulnerable individuals and the broader community.
No arrests have been made, and the woman is expected to be transferred back to the care of medical professionals at Saint Camille. The incident, though unsettling, ended without any fatalities—thanks largely to the quick action of local residents.
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