Kebatu Manhunt Ends After Convicted Sex Offender Mistakenly Freed from UK Prison

Kebatu Manhunt Ends:

- Who is Hadush Kebatu?

A convicted sex offender mistakenly released from HM Prison Chelmsford.

- How long was Kebatu free?

Approximately 70 hours before being re-arrested in London.

- What happened after his arrest?

Kebatu will face deportation, and authorities are reviewing release procedures.

A nationwide manhunt in the United Kingdom concluded on Saturday after Hadush Kebatu, a convicted sex offender, was mistakenly released from HM Prison Chelmsford. The error sparked public concern and criticism of the UK prison system.

Timeline of Events

Kebatu arrived in the UK via a small boat crossing in June and was later convicted of multiple sexual offences against a woman and a schoolgirl following a three-day trial in September. Despite his convictions, he was accidentally released on Friday and remained free for roughly 70 hours.

Authorities arrested him in London’s Finsbury Park area at around 8:30 a.m., following a tip-off from a member of the public. Officials described him as calm and compliant during the arrest.

Government and Public Response

Senior UK officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, immediately condemned the release. They pledged swift reforms to ensure such mistakes “must never happen again.”

The government confirmed Kebatu will be deported as quickly as possible, reflecting concerns over public safety and immigration management. Recent figures show that 262 prisoners were released in error between March 2024 and March 2025, a sharp rise from the previous year, highlighting weaknesses in release procedures.

Broader Implications

The incident raises significant questions for global observers about managing high-risk offenders and the effectiveness of prison systems in safeguarding the public. The 'mistaken' releases of convicted offenders can erode trust in legal and correctional institutions, a concern for nations worldwide.

The case also intersects with debates over asylum accommodation policies, as Kebatu had been temporarily housed in an Epping asylum hotel before his trial. This situation has intensified scrutiny of both the UK’s criminal justice and immigration systems.

Conclusion

Kebatu is back in custody, but the case has sparked renewed debate over prison system failures, public safety, and immigration policies, drawing attention beyond the UK. 

The authorities face urgent pressure to strengthen oversight of prisoner releases and implement clear protocols to prevent similar errors in the future.