Manhunt Launched for Sex Offender Accidentally Released in UK

Authorities in the United Kingdom have initiated a manhunt for Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian national who was accidentally released from prison while serving a 12-month sentence for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Essex Police confirmed that Kebatu was last seen boarding a train to London from Chelmsford Railway Station shortly before 13:00 on October 24, 2023.

Kebatu had been residing at the Bell Hotel in Epping when he was mistakenly freed. According to information from the Justice Secretary, David Lammy, Kebatu was supposed to be transferred to an immigration detention centre for deportation. However, an error during the release process led to his unexpected freedom.

Essex Police issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to locating Kebatu quickly. “We were informed by the prison service at 12:57 PM today of an error this morning surrounding the release of an individual,” the statement read. “As a result of that, we have launched a search operation to locate them and are working closely with partner agencies.”

Kebatu was reported to have boarded a train that stopped at Shenfield and Stratford before arriving at London Liverpool Street at approximately 13:18. The police have urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to call emergency services.

Political Response and Public Outcry

The accidental release has drawn sharp criticism from various political figures. Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, described the incident as “totally unacceptable.” Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his dismay, stating, “I am appalled that it has happened and it’s being investigated. The police are working urgently to track him down, and my government is supporting them.”

Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy expressed his outrage, labeling the situation “livid on behalf of the public.” He called on Kebatu to turn himself in and stated, “The important thing is that we protect the public.”

In a pointed critique, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemned the government’s handling of the situation as “staggering incompetence.” He called for a public inquiry into the circumstances that allowed Kebatu’s release, arguing that it endangered the safety of young girls in the area. Philp further asserted that the current administration’s immigration policies must be reviewed to prevent such incidents in the future.

Community Concerns and Reactions

The incident has sparked protests outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, where Kebatu was staying. Local leaders, including Liberal Democrat MP Marie Goldman, have called for a rapid public inquiry, expressing frustration over the lack of communication from prison officials. Goldman emphasized the need for systemic changes, stating, “How could it possibly just be the responsibility of one single member of staff to decide whether to release or not a prisoner?”

The Criminal Justice Workers’ Union has also voiced its concerns, labeling Kebatu’s release a “profound failure of duty.” Union representatives are demanding immediate reforms to prevent similar mistakes in the future, highlighting the urgent need for bolstered public safety measures.

Kebatu was convicted of multiple offenses, including inappropriate conduct towards minors, following a series of incidents shortly after his arrival in the UK. Sentencing him last month, a judge remarked on the severity of his actions, noting that his behavior demonstrated a “poor regard for women.”

As the manhunt continues, authorities remain focused on ensuring the public’s safety and apprehending Kebatu swiftly. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his release is ongoing, with calls for accountability resonating across the political landscape.