THE public is being warned not to approach a "restricted" patient who absconded from a mental health unit in Glasgow.

Owen Bonner absconded on Thursday mid-afternoon from Rowanbank Clinic whilst on escorted leave in the east end of the city.

The 48-year-old previously absconded in January 2015 before handing himself in to police.

Bonner held two women hostage in a siege at Marshall's Chunky Chicken factory in Coatbridge in 1994. The public is advised not to approach him.

He is 5ft 10inches, of slim build with blue eyes and short grey hair.

He was last seen wearing black jogging trousers with grey stripe, grey t-shirt, navy cardigan, grey parker style jacket and black Nike trainers.

A Scottish Government statement said: "We are keen to trace this man as soon as possible, you are advised not to approach him and if anyone sees him, or has any information regarding his whereabouts, they should contact Police Scotland on 101."