The Metropolitan Police have assumed control of the search for a convicted sex offender who was mistakenly released from prison, with authorities indicating a strong likelihood that the individual, an asylum seeker, is now in London. The public is advised to contact emergency services immediately upon sighting Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian national who was sentenced in September to 12 months in prison for the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu had been residing at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, prior to his conviction. Following confirmation from Justice Secretary David Lammy that Kebatu was spotted boarding a train in Chelmsford, the Metropolitan Police formally took over the search from Essex Police after the individual disembarked at Stratford in east London.
The transport hub at Stratford, ranking as the fifth busiest station in the UK, offers connections to the London underground, London overground, and Docklands Light Railway (DLR). Commander James Conway emphasized the top priority status of locating Kebatu, with an experienced investigating officer leading the search efforts. Investigation teams from the Specialist Crime Command, specializing in locating wanted individuals, are actively involved, along with additional resources from the Metropolitan Police. Surveillance footage from the area and wider transport network is being analyzed to track Kebatu’s movements, with updates forthcoming as the search progresses.
Kebatu’s accidental release from HMP Chelmsford occurred due to a mistaken classification as a prisoner eligible for release on license, resulting in his release with a £76 discharge grant. Authorities urge anyone with information on Kebatu’s whereabouts to contact emergency services immediately. Sir Keir Starmer labeled the release as “totally unacceptable,” vowing to support law enforcement efforts in capturing and deporting Kebatu. Deputy Prime Minister Lammy expressed frustration on behalf of the public, while Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemned the release as a display of gross incompetence, calling for a public inquiry into the matter.
A prison officer has been reassigned from prisoner discharge duties pending an investigation, with the Prison Service prioritizing public protection and launching an inquiry into the incident. A report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons highlighted challenges faced by HMP Chelmsford, attributing them to national capacity issues and staffing shortages within reception and pre-release teams. During the sentencing of Kebatu, the judge criticized his behavior as indicative of a lack of respect for women.
Kebatu’s offenses, which included making inappropriate advances towards teenagers and a woman, resulted in five convictions following a trial at Chelmsford and Colchester magistrates’ courts. At the sentencing hearing, Kebatu expressed his desire to be deported. Discrepancies in Kebatu’s age were noted, with conflicting birth dates provided in court and police records. The Home Office had been prepared to transfer him to an immigration removal center for eventual deportation.