London: Downing Street has confirmed that Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker convicted of sexual assault, will be deported from the UK imminently after being mistakenly released from a prison in Chelmsford. Kebatu, who had been residing at the Bell Hotel in Essex, was wrongfully freed instead of being transferred to an immigration detention center. He was later apprehended in Finsbury Park, London, after a two-day manhunt.
According to Ghana News Agency, Kebatu's release has raised serious concerns about the UK's justice system. The incident prompted the Prime Minister's office to promise swift deportation, with an official spokesperson stating that the removal is expected within a few days. The spokesperson criticized the systemic issues within the justice system, citing cuts to staffing, inadequate prison facilities, and underinvestment as contributing factors.
The chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, highlighted that mistakes in prisoner releases are frequent, describing them as an endemic problem that requires urgent attention. Justice Secretary David Lammy is set to propose measures to strengthen the system and address the release blunder in parliament. Enhanced checks are also expected to be implemented for future prisoner releases.
Government figures from July reveal that 262 prisoners were released in error in the year leading up to March 2025, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Taylor emphasized the need for accountability and proper training for staff involved in prisoner releases.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressed frustration over the broken justice system, announcing an independent inquiry into the incident. Chelmsford lawmaker Marie Goldman called for a national probe to address the risks posed to public safety. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp and other politicians have demanded answers and apologies from Lammy and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
The incident has sparked protests in Epping and other locations, with Reform UK head of policy Zia Yusuf questioning the system's ability to protect sexual assault victims. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ordered an investigation to prevent future occurrences.
Kebatu, who entered the UK on June 29, was convicted of multiple offenses, including inappropriate behavior towards a 14-year-old girl and a woman. His case has highlighted the complexities surrounding immigration and justice systems, with widespread calls for reform and accountability. A prison officer has been suspended pending the investigation.
