The accidental Epping asylum seeker release of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu has sent shockwaves across Essex and the wider UK. Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum-seeker, was previously convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, along with other related offences, and was serving a sentence in HM Prison Chelmsford. However, due to a procedural oversight, he was mistakenly released ahead of his scheduled deportation, raising serious public safety concerns.
Background of the Offender
Kebatu arrived in the UK on a small boat and was temporarily housed in The Bell Hotel in Epping while awaiting asylum processing. Shortly after his arrival, he committed sexual offences, including two counts of sexual assault, one attempted sexual assault, one count of inciting a minor to engage in sexual activity, and harassment without violence.
Following his conviction, he was sentenced to 12 months in prison, required to register as a sex offender for 10 years, and subjected to a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. The subsequent Epping asylum seeker release from HM Prison Chelmsford, due to a procedural error, has caused widespread alarm and triggered a police manhunt.
The Accidental Epping Asylum Seeker Release
Despite serving his sentence, Kebatu was supposed to be transferred to an immigration removal centre to begin deportation proceedings. However, the Epping asylum seeker release occurred accidentally while he was still in custody at Chelmsford Prison. Witnesses reported seeing Kebatu walking freely in Chelmsford high street wearing prison-issued clothing shortly after the error, and authorities confirmed that the release was unintentional, describing it as a “serious procedural mistake.”
Manhunt and Official Response
The Epping asylum seeker release immediately triggered a police and immigration enforcement manhunt. The prison service and the Ministry of Justice launched an urgent investigation into how such an error could occur. A prison officer involved in the release process has been suspended, and officials have promised strict accountability measures to prevent similar incidents.
Public Reaction and Political Response
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and politicians. Epping MP has demanded a public inquiry into the Epping asylum seeker release, highlighting systemic failures in monitoring convicted offenders awaiting deportation. Many residents have expressed concern over the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers, fearing that lapses in oversight could put communities at risk. National media has drawn attention to the broader implications for the UK’s prison and immigration systems.
Security and Policy Implications
The accidental Epping asylum seeker release has prompted renewed discussions about prison security and immigration procedures. Experts warn that even a single error, such as in Kebatu’s case, can undermine public trust in the system. Recommendations now include stricter checks on prisoner transfers, enhanced staff training, and more robust communication between the prison service and immigration authorities to ensure offenders are not accidentally freed.
Conclusion
The Epping asylum seeker release of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu underscores significant gaps in the UK’s prison and immigration processes. Authorities are working diligently to re-arrest him and strengthen procedures to prevent future lapses. Meanwhile, local residents, policymakers, and law enforcement continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public safety while maintaining proper legal oversight.
Sources: The Sun, The Guardian
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