Former Morocco international Reda Hajhouj has been sentenced to prison in Belgium. The ex-footballer, who played for clubs including KRC Genk and Al-Jazira, received a five-year sentence, with half of it suspended.
The legal troubles stem from his involvement in a car accident in 2019 while he was a player for KAS Eupen. The crash resulted in serious injuries to another person. Following the incident, Hajhouj left Belgium and continued his career in the United Arab Emirates.
His return to Belgium earlier this year led to his immediate arrest at Brussels Airport based on an outstanding international warrant. The court in Verviers has now delivered its verdict, convicting him for his role in the accident.
According to a report, it has been revealed that Hajhouj attempted to avoid prosecution by fleeing the country after the crash. The judicial authorities pursued the case, leading to the warrant that was executed upon his recent return.
Now 31, Hajhouj earned 12 caps for the Moroccan national team between 2016 and 2018. His club career also included spells in Turkey and Saudi Arabia following his time in the Belgian Pro League.
