The Epping assailant allegedly attempted to go back to prison immediately after his release but was reportedly denied entry by guards who instructed him to board a train. Hadush Kebatu, who had served a 12-month sentence for assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex, was mistakenly set free from HMP Chelmsford, triggering a large-scale manhunt across the southeast of England. The Metropolitan Police, taking charge of the search from Essex Police, has called on the 41-year-old asylum seeker, set for deportation to Ethiopia, to surrender.
An eyewitness, a delivery driver named Sim, recounted how Kebatu appeared confused and sought guidance from prison staff upon his release. The convicted offender lingered outside the prison for about 90 minutes before being directed towards Chelmsford station by guards who advised him to depart. According to Sim, Kebatu expressed uncertainty about his situation and sought help, acknowledging his impending deportation.
Authorities disclosed that Kebatu possesses funds and has traveled by train extensively in London post-release. Some of the money in his possession was likely returned to him during his release from prison. A man resembling Kebatu, dressed in a prison-issued grey tracksuit and carrying a clear plastic bag containing his belongings, was spotted on Chelmsford High Street before reportedly boarding a train bound for London.
Upon Kebatu’s initial conviction for assaulting a woman and a minor near the Bell Hotel in Essex, the judge highlighted his high risk of reoffending and imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) prohibiting contact with females. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the erroneous release, emphasizing the necessity to recapture and deport Kebatu for his offenses.
Commander James Conway of the Metropolitan Police emphasized the priority of locating Kebatu, confirming his disembarkation at Stratford station from a London-bound train. CCTV footage analysis is underway to trace his movements post-arrival. Updates will be provided as the search progresses, urging the public to report any sightings or relevant information by calling 999 promptly.