A convicted sex offender, mistakenly released from prison and later found in London, has been apprehended. Hadush Kebatu, 38, received a 12-month jail term for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex. Despite being scheduled for deportation, Kebatu was mistakenly set free from HMP Chelmsford, prompting a widespread search in the south-east region. He conducted his offenses while residing at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex.
Today, at approximately 8:30 am, Kebatu was arrested in the Finsbury Park area by the Metropolitan Police. He was escorted by plain-clothed officers to a police van, donning a black puffa jacket and jeans, with a hood covering his head. Justice Secretary David Lammy confirmed Kebatu’s imminent deportation, commending the swift actions of the Met, Essex, and British Transport Police.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood reiterated the deportation plan for Kebatu, emphasizing the need to prevent such incidents in the future. During his sentencing, Kebatu was deemed a high risk for reoffending and was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order.
The Metropolitan Police took over the investigation from Essex Police, as there was a strong belief that Kebatu was in London. Following sightings in the area, Kebatu was seen in a library in Dalston, Hackney, leading to his arrest in Finsbury Park. Metropolitan Police Commander James Conway expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance in locating Kebatu, ensuring his return to custody.