Police hunt Epping migrant sex offender released in error

Police hunt Epping migrant sex offender released in error

An asylum seeker named Hadush Kebatu, who was wrongfully released from HMP Chelmsford, is being sought by the police following his recent prison release. Kebatu, a 41-year-old Ethiopian national, was serving time for sexual assault charges involving a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex. Concerns were raised by Justice Secretary David Lammy that Kebatu is currently “at large” in London, prompting a collaborative effort from multiple law enforcement agencies to locate him.

Various law enforcement bodies, including the Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police (BTP), and Essex Police, are actively involved in tracking down Kebatu. The Prime Minister has emphasized the urgency of capturing Kebatu and ensuring his deportation as a response to his criminal actions. Essex Police detailed that Kebatu boarded a train at Chelmsford station on Friday, triggering immediate action upon notification of the release error by the Prison Service.

Amidst the search for Kebatu, a former prison officer has been reassigned pending an investigation into the release mishap. John Podmore, a seasoned prison professional, highlighted the intricate nature of prisoner movements and advocated for a comprehensive examination of systemic failures within the penal system. Conservative MP Neil Hudson and Liberal Democrat MP Marie Goldman, representing respective constituencies affected by Kebatu’s release, expressed deep concern and called for accountability from top government officials to address the aftermath of the incident.

Moreover, the improper release of Kebatu has been widely condemned by political figures, with calls for a thorough public inquiry to delve into the circumstances surrounding his erroneous release. The release of Kebatu, along with the increasing number of similar cases, underscores broader issues within the prison and probation sectors. As investigations continue and efforts to locate Kebatu intensify, the focus remains on safeguarding public welfare and rectifying procedural lapses to prevent future occurrences of this nature

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