Migrant sex offender released from prison in error arrested

Migrant sex offender released from prison in error arrested

After being mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, a migrant by the name of Hadush Kebatu was apprehended in north London, the Metropolitan Police reported. The arrest took place in the Finsbury Park area at 08:30 GMT on Sunday, just two days after Kebatu’s erroneous release. Authorities took him into custody on suspicion of being unlawfully at large. Health Secretary Wes Streeting suggested immediate deportation for Kebatu, a move supported by the Met Police since he was set to be deported after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Epping while staying in an asylum hotel.

The situation surrounding Kebatu’s release has sparked controversy, with Sir Keir Starmer assuring the public that a thorough investigation is being conducted to prevent such errors from reoccurring. Eyewitnesses in Finsbury Park observed officers leading Kebatu away from the scene, prompting speculation and concern from the community regarding the handling of high-profile cases. The swift action by law enforcement was prompted by a vigilant member of the public who spotted Kebatu at a bus stop near Finsbury Park station, leading to his capture within 16 minutes of the sighting.

Kebatu’s abnormal interactions post-release, as evidenced by security footage showing him in Chelmsford city center shortly after his mistaken freedom, raised further questions about the oversight that allowed his escape. Notably, Kebatu’s disregard for his legal predicament led to multiple train journeys across London as authorities worked to track him down. The detailed procedures for Kebatu’s deportation, in line with the UK Borders Act 2007, underscore the importance of preventing such lapses in law enforcement protocols.

In light of the recent incident involving Kebatu, the HM Prison Service has called for enhanced screening measures before prisoner releases, urging a more stringent approach moving forward. The statement from a senior prison official emphasizing the systemic nature of the release mishap points to broader shortcomings within the penal system. The concerning rise in erroneous releases across England and Wales, as highlighted by the report from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to prevent future incidents. Various political figures have expressed relief at Kebatu’s arrest while calling for transparency in the investigation to address systemic deficiencies within the justice system

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