Massive Belgian manhunt continues for armed soldier on run

Over 400 specialized forces in Belgium have intensified their search for an armed soldier who is on a federal anti-terror watch list because of his extreme right-wing sympathies but was still able to hoard heavy weapons before disappearing this week

BRUSSELS -- Over 400 specialized forces in Belgium intensified their search Thursday for an armed soldier who is on a federal anti-terror watch list because of his extreme right-wing sympathies but was still able to hoard heavy weapons in army barracks before disappearing this week. As the experienced soldier evaded capture for a third day running, the Belgian government looked for clues of blunders that could have allowed the 46-year-old to gain access to an array of weapons, including four anti-tank missile launchers, despite the knowledge he was a clear threat to society. “I don't know whether to laugh or cry,” opposition lawmaker Jean-Marie Dedecker said. The man, identified as Jurgen Conings, threatened several people in the past months, including a top virologist involved in Belgium's COVID-19 program. He landed on the anti-terror watch list in February.