An individual, identified as the Epping assailant, reportedly attempted to return to prison shortly after being released but was denied re-entry by prison guards instructing him to board a train. Hadush Kebatu, who had served a 12-month sentence for sexual offenses against a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex, was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, triggering a widespread search across the southeast of England. The Metropolitan Police, taking over the search from Essex Police, has urged the 41-year-old asylum seeker, set for deportation to Ethiopia, to surrender.
A delivery driver outside the prison recounted witnessing a bewildered Kebatu questioning staff about his release. The driver, known as Sim, stated that the convicted individual lingered outside the prison for about 90 minutes before being directed towards Chelmsford station by guards.
According to Sky News, Kebatu appeared disoriented and sought assistance, acknowledging his impending deportation. Reports indicate that Kebatu has accessed funds and traveled on multiple train routes across London post-release, possibly utilizing money returned to him along with his belongings upon leaving prison.
A sighting matching Kebatu’s description was reported on Chelmsford High Street, where he was observed in a prison-issued gray tracksuit carrying a clear plastic bag of belongings before boarding a train bound for London. Following his previous sentencing for sexual offenses, Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the erroneous release, emphasizing the urgency to recapture and deport Kebatu.
Commander James Conway of the Metropolitan Police stressed the priority of locating Kebatu, highlighting the utilization of specialized resources and expertise for the manhunt. It was confirmed that Kebatu disembarked at Stratford station after alighting from the London-bound train, prompting investigations through CCTV footage to track his movements. Authorities have urged the public to report any sightings or information about Kebatu’s whereabouts to emergency services promptly.