Asylum Seeker Mistakenly Released, Sparks Manhunt in London

An asylum seeker, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford and subsequently sparked a manhunt across London. The Ethiopian national, who was serving a 12-month sentence for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, was freed on October 6, 2023, instead of being transferred to an immigration detention centre.

Witnesses reported that Kebatu returned to the prison several times in a “very confused state” within just 90 minutes after his release. A delivery driver, who chose to remain anonymous and spoke to Sky News, described seeing Kebatu appear bewildered and repeatedly asking, “Where am I going? What am I doing?”

Kebatu had been in the UK for only eight days when he committed the offences that led to his conviction. His trial revealed that he made inappropriate comments to the young girl and attempted to kiss her. The following day, he assaulted another woman in a similar manner. After his release, he was given a £76 discharge grant and was last seen at Stratford Station at 13:12, having taken a train from Chelmsford.

Details of the Release and Search Efforts

According to the Metropolitan Police, Kebatu has been moving around London since his release and has “access to funds.” Authorities confirmed he has taken multiple train journeys and sought help from members of the public. Commander James Conway of the Metropolitan Police stated, “We want to locate you in a safe and controlled way,” urging Kebatu to contact the police directly.

Following the incident, Kebatu was seen in Chelmsford town centre asking for assistance before boarding a train to London. The police have appealed to the public for any information related to his whereabouts and have advised anyone who sees him to call 999.

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that the witness account of Kebatu’s confusion is accurate. The driver reported that Kebatu seemed increasingly distressed after being turned away by prison staff, who directed him to the railway station, stating, “Go, you’ve been released, you go.”

Official Reactions and Investigations

The accidental release has drawn significant criticism from political leaders. Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, expressed his outrage, calling the situation “totally unacceptable,” and emphasized the need for Kebatu to be apprehended and deported for his crimes. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy echoed these sentiments, stating he was “livid on behalf of the public” and announced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kebatu’s release.

An investigation has resulted in a prison officer being removed from duties related to prisoner discharge while inquiries continue. Recent reports indicate that there has been a notable increase in erroneous prisoner releases in England and Wales, with 262 prisoners released in error over a 12-month period ending in March 2023, a rise of 128% from the previous year.

The HM Inspectorate of Prisons noted that HMP Chelmsford is under considerable pressure due to “national capacity issues” and is experiencing staff shortages in key areas.

Kebatu’s case has further inflamed public sentiment regarding immigration and asylum policies in the UK. Protests have erupted in Epping, Essex, and other locations, highlighting the contentious nature of asylum seeker accommodations and the responsibilities of the authorities.

With the police actively searching for Kebatu, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information related to his movements.