The Metropolitan Police have assumed control of the search for a convicted sex offender who was mistakenly released from prison. Authorities have stated that there is a strong belief that the asylum seeker, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, is currently in London. Members of the public are urged to contact emergency services immediately if they spot Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian national who was sentenced to 12 months in prison for assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu resided at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, prior to his conviction.
Following his sighting boarding a train at Chelmsford, David Lammy, the Justice Secretary, confirmed that Kebatu was on the loose in London. The Metropolitan Police took over the search from Essex Police after Kebatu disembarked at Stratford in east London. Stratford station, one of the busiest in the UK, offers connections to the London underground, London overground, and Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
Commander James Conway emphasized the importance of locating Kebatu, calling it a top priority for the Met. He mentioned that an experienced investigating officer is leading the search with the support of specialized teams from the Met Police. Conway underlined the ongoing review of CCTV footage in the area and beyond to track Kebatu’s movements, noting that detailed updates may not be provided to maintain the effectiveness of the manhunt.
Kebatu was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, where he was erroneously classified as a prisoner eligible for release on license. Authorities are urging anyone with information on Kebatu’s whereabouts to contact emergency services immediately. Keir Starmer condemned the accidental release as unacceptable and assured support for the police’s efforts to locate Kebatu and ensure his deportation. Deputy Prime Minister Lammy expressed frustration on behalf of the public, while Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp demanded a public inquiry into the release.
The incident at HMP Chelmsford has prompted an investigation, leading to the removal of a prison officer responsible for discharging prisoners. The Prison Service has initiated an inquiry, emphasizing the utmost priority of public protection. A report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons highlighted the challenges faced by HMP Chelmsford due to national capacity issues and staffing shortages.
During his trial, Kebatu, who arrived in the UK shortly before the incidents in July, was found guilty of multiple offenses including sexual assault. The court heard that Kebatu expressed a desire to be deported. Discrepancies in Kebatu’s age were noted in court, with differing dates of birth provided by the defendant and Essex Police. Plans were in place for his deportation to an immigration removal center under the supervision of the Home Office.