David Lammy is expected to face tough questioning in Parliament following an incident where an asylum seeker, who had been convicted of a sex offense, was mistakenly released from prison instead of being transferred to an immigration detention center.
The individual in question, Hadush Kebatu, a citizen of Ethiopia, was handed a 12-month sentence in September for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. However, he was erroneously released from HMP Chelmsford on Friday morning.
Kebatu, who was residing at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, at the time of the assault, traveled from Chelmsford to London and was apprehended on Sunday morning in Finsbury Park.
The father of Kebatu’s teenage victim has expressed his desire for the immediate deportation of the sex offender, a sentiment that has been echoed by the Justice Secretary who indicated that deportation proceedings are expected to take place in the upcoming week.
David Lammy, in a statement to the media, emphasized the need for Kebatu to undergo police interrogation before deportation, ensuring that the necessary procedures are followed promptly.
He also disclosed plans for an independent investigation into the incident, with details to be presented in Parliament on Monday, emphasizing that the error allowing Kebatu’s release should not have occurred.
Criticism from opposition politicians has been severe, with demands for a swift national inquiry into the oversight that led to Kebatu’s release. Concerns have been raised about the safety of constituents and the general public, highlighting the need for a more effective system.
Various political figures have expressed shock and called for accountability, with calls for a thorough review to prevent similar incidents in the future. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has initiated an investigation to ascertain the failures in the handling of the case and to prevent such lapses from recurring.
The situation has sparked protests and counter-protests in Epping, leading to demonstrations outside accommodations for asylum seekers nationwide.