Hadush Kebatu, the Epping sex offender recently mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, was last seen in East London carrying a unique white bag adorned with avocado patterns. Kebatu, who had been serving a 12-month sentence for sexual assault, including an incident involving a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex, was due for deportation. The Metropolitan Police confirmed his sighting in the Dalston area of Hackney at 8 pm on Friday.
Despite being clad in a prison-issued grey tracksuit, Kebatu’s distinguishing feature was the avocado-themed bag he was seen carrying, replacing the clear plastic prison bag he initially had. Law enforcement authorities are intensifying their search efforts for Kebatu and have urged residents to report any sightings promptly. Witnesses observed Kebatu’s perplexed state as he returned to the prison gates multiple times before being redirected to a railway station.
Reports indicated that Kebatu traveled from Chelmsford to London, making several journeys across the city with access to financial resources. A delivery driver recounted Kebatu’s confusion and distress upon being repeatedly turned away by prison staff, unsure of his next steps despite being aware of his impending deportation. The driver described Kebatu’s dilemma and the staff’s actions, highlighting the challenging situation faced by the released offender.
The evolving situation underscores the urgency of locating Kebatu, and authorities have requested immediate reporting to the emergency services upon any sightings.
