Full Breakdown
Mistaken Release of Epping Migrant Sparks Outrage and Fear
11/6/2025, 7:05:03 AM
Incident Overview: Assault and Release of Hadush Kebatu
Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian national, was sentenced to one year in prison in September 2025 for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and another woman shortly after arriving in the UK. His crimes occurred while he was staying at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, just days after crossing the Channel on a small boat. Despite his conviction, Kebatu was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford a month later instead of being transferred to an immigration removal center, prompting a two-day manhunt that ended with his re-arrest in Finsbury Park on October 26, 2025. He was subsequently deported to Ethiopia, but not before receiving £500 to expedite his removal after threatening legal action.
Impact on Victim and Family
The victim's father expressed profound disappointment with the government's handling of the situation, stating that they have been "let down relentlessly" and have received "no justice." He emphasized the emotional toll on his daughter, who reported feeling "in danger all over again" upon learning of Kebatu's release. The girl articulated her distress, stating, "I think it's disgusting how me and my family have been treated in all of this," and expressed anxiety about potentially encountering Kebatu again in Epping.
Government Response and Investigations
In light of the incident, the Ministry of Justice has initiated an independent investigation led by Dame Lynne Owens into the circumstances surrounding Kebatu's wrongful release. Justice Secretary David Lammy acknowledged the outrage felt by the victims and the public, stating, "This was a mistake that should not have happened." He also offered apologies for the anxiety caused to the family, although these sentiments were not communicated directly to them at the time.
Protests and Community Reaction
Kebatu's release sparked nationwide protests, some of which turned violent, particularly outside the Bell Hotel where he was housed. The girl's father condemned the violence, asserting, "I don't condone a single bit of that. I don't want any fighting, I don't want any violence." He emphasized that his family does not harbor prejudice, despite the tensions surrounding the incident.
Criticism of the Justice System
The victim's father criticized the justice system for its failures, noting that Kebatu served only 17 weeks from arrest to deportation, which he deemed "disgusting." He expressed frustration over the lack of support and recognition from the government, stating, "We haven't had a single apology or any recognition whatsoever."
Verbatim Quotes
- “All they do is keep breaking us as a family. Like from July, from that very first phone call until now, we've just been let down relentlessly, time and time again.” — Father of the victim
- “I feel like I was put in danger all over again and all the feelings from that day came back.” — Victim
- “This was a mistake that should not have happened.” — David Lammy, Justice Secretary
What's Next
The independent investigation into Kebatu's release is expected to lead to reforms in the prison system to prevent similar incidents in the future. The government has committed to implementing more stringent protocols for the release of individuals from custody, ensuring that proper checks are in place to safeguard public safety.
