UK Police Search Escaped Migrant Sex Offender After Clerical Release Error

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker jailed for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and another woman shortly after arriving in the UK by boat, was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford just one month into a 12-month sentence. Instead of being transferred to an immigration removal center for deportation, Kebatu was erroneously categorized as eligible for release, receiving a discharge grant and subsequently boarding a train to London, prompting a nationwide manhunt. The victim's family expressed feelings of betrayal and devastation, criticizing the justice system for the failure and lack of direct notification. This incident has sparked widespread condemnation, including from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer, both calling for Kebatu's recapture and deportation. Local officials and MPs highlighted systemic failures and called for urgent government action to restore public trust amid ongoing protests surrounding migrant housing policies. An investigation is underway, and prison staff have been relieved of duty as authorities continue efforts to locate Kebatu.