An individual involved in an incident in Epping attempted to re-enter prison shortly after being released but was denied entry by prison staff who instructed him to take a train, according to reports. Hadush Kebatu, who had recently served a 12-month sentence for assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex, was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, leading to a widespread search in the southeast of England. The Metropolitan Police took over the search from Essex Police and urged the 41-year-old asylum seeker, who was set for deportation to Ethiopia, to surrender.
A witness, a delivery driver named Sim, recounted how Kebatu appeared confused and inquired about his release outside the prison. Despite being directed towards Chelmsford station by guards, Kebatu lingered outside the prison gates for about 90 minutes. He approached Sim seeking help, as he was unsure of his next steps.
Authorities revealed that Kebatu had access to funds and had made several train journeys in London following his release, possibly using money returned to him upon leaving prison. A person matching Kebatu’s description, wearing a grey tracksuit issued by the prison and carrying a clear plastic bag of belongings, was seen in Chelmsford before reportedly boarding a London-bound train.
During Kebatu’s previous conviction for assaulting a woman and a minor near the Bell Hotel in Essex, the judge had warned of his high risk of reoffending and imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the erroneous release, emphasizing the need to recapture and deport Kebatu for his crimes.
Metropolitan Police’s Commander James Conway emphasized the urgency of locating Kebatu, confirming his presence at Stratford station after disembarking from a London-bound train. Efforts to track Kebatu’s movements through CCTV footage and public cooperation were highlighted, with a plea for immediate reporting to authorities if Kebatu is sighted.
