Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Epping, Essex, was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford due to human error, prompting a two- day manhunt before he was recaptured and deported to Ethiopia.
To expedite his removal and avoid costly delays, the Home Office reportedly paid him £500, although he was not part of the voluntary returns scheme, which would have offered £1,500.
The incident sparked an urgent review of prison release procedures, the suspension of a prison officer, and an independent inquiry led by former Deputy Commissioner Dame Lynne Owens to determine how the error occurred and prevent future mistakes.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the release as unacceptable but confirmed Kebatu’s deportation, emphasising public safety, while local officials expressed relief amid ongoing tensions over asylum accommodation in Epping.
Julia Hartley-Brewer interviews Reform UK Councillor, Laila Cunningham.
Credit to : TalkTV