A convicted sex offender, Hadush Kebatu, was mistakenly released from a UK prison, triggering a nationwide search and public outcry. Instead of being transferred to immigration detention, Kebatu, an Ethiopian national, walked free from HMP Chelmsford on Friday morning.
His release sparked immediate alarm, particularly given the severity of his crimes – sexual assault against a 14-year-old girl and a woman – and the protests his presence had already ignited in the town where he was housed. Witnesses reported seeing a confused Kebatu being directed towards a railway station by prison staff, even returning to the prison reception multiple times before boarding a train to London.
A swift manhunt ensued, culminating in his arrest on Sunday morning. Police located Kebatu sitting on a bench in Finsbury Park, bringing an end to his days on the run. The circumstances surrounding his accidental freedom prompted an immediate review of prison release procedures.
The Home Office confirmed Kebatu’s removal from the UK on Tuesday night, with his arrival in Ethiopia verified Wednesday morning. This deportation followed a period of intense scrutiny and public demand for swift action.
The incident led to the implementation of new, stringent checks within prisons, including detailed, multi-page instructions and a requirement for senior staff authorization for all releases. The Home Secretary emphasized the gravity of the error, stating that such a blunder should never have occurred and expressing gratitude to both the police and the public for their assistance.
The message was clear: those who commit crimes within the country will face removal. Kebatu’s case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration, public safety, and the critical importance of secure prison protocols.
