An individual identified as the Epping assailant reportedly attempted to re-enter prison shortly after being released but was denied by guards who instructed him to board a train. The individual, Hadush Kebatu, recently served a 12-month sentence for sexual offenses against a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex. However, he was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford, prompting a significant search effort in the southeast of England.
Eyewitnesses, including a delivery driver named Sim, observed Kebatu appearing confused and questioning why he had been released outside the prison premises. Following his release, guards directed him towards Chelmsford station. Kebatu, an asylum seeker facing deportation to Ethiopia, lingered outside the prison for approximately 90 minutes before being guided to the train station.
Authorities disclosed that Kebatu possesses financial resources and has undertaken several train journeys in London post-release, potentially utilizing funds returned to him upon leaving prison. A sighting matching Kebatu’s description in a prison-issued tracksuit with personal belongings in a clear plastic bag on Chelmsford High Street suggests he boarded a London-bound train.
During his initial sentencing for assaulting a woman and a minor near the Bell Hotel in Essex, Kebatu was deemed a high risk of reoffending and subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. Political figures, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, condemned Kebatu’s release as unacceptable and emphasized the urgency of his recapture and deportation.
Metropolitan Police Commander James Conway emphasized the priority of locating Kebatu and confirmed his presence at Stratford station after disembarking from a London-bound train. Law enforcement is reviewing CCTV footage in the area and soliciting public assistance in reporting any sightings or relevant information concerning Kebatu’s whereabouts. The public is urged to contact emergency services immediately upon encountering Kebatu.