UK authorities have issued a desperate, nation-wide manhunt for Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu. The 38-year-old Ethiopian national had been in custody for sexual crimes against a minor, but was accidentally released from jail on Friday. As a result, Kebatu was sentenced to one year in prison after a jury convicted him on five counts. These violations ranged from sexual assault, to inciting a girl to participate in sexual activity, offense and harassment.
Kebatu’s release… Following that public outcry… these major concerns were stifled. Unsurprisingly, officials are up in arms too, particularly in light of the egregiousness of his crimes. Police said that Kebatu was last seen boarding a train from Chelmsford shortly after his release. His decision set off an unprecedented series of nationwide anti-migrant protests. As Kebatu was found to be residing with other newly arrived migrants at the Bell Hotel in Epping, thousands protested directly outside the Bell.
It is likely that the incident which resulted in Kebatu’s conviction took place just after he stepped onto English soil from the ship. A little more than a week later, on another sunny July day, he did the same with a 14-year-old girl in Epping. He attempted to kiss her and put his hand on her leg. His arrest and then prosecution sparked a historic grassroots response. Citizens filled the streets and called for harsher repercussions for those who have committed similar crimes.
Kebatu’s lawyer said that he would like his client to be deported once he serves time in prison. That incorrect release has made this already bad situation inexcusable. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his outrage over the incident, calling it “appalling” and emphasizing that “this man must be caught and deported for his crimes.”
Aaron Stow, president of the Criminal Justice Workers’ Union, criticized the release as “a profound failure of duty” and a “betrayal of the victims, the community, and the principles of justice.” The local community is understandably shaken by the horrific incident. It has raised troubling questions about the procedures for releasing people who might pose a risk to public safety.
Police say they are still actively searching for Kebatu. At the same time, officials are under increasing pressure to address the systemic failures that contributed to this lapse. The now impacted local community is rightfully on high alert. Most of city’s residents remain still concerned about what Kebatu’s release means. Moving protests continue to signal citizens’ collective anger at immigration enforcement and crime.
