Manhunt Underway After Asylum Seeker’s Accidental Release Following Epping Hotel Assault Conviction
UK authorities search for asylum seeker previously jailed for sexual assault after being mistakenly freed
A nationwide manhunt is underway in the United Kingdom after an asylum seeker who was jailed for sexually assaulting a girl was accidentally released from custody.
The man, identified as Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian national, had been convicted of multiple offences while living at the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex — including sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl and a woman, attempted sexual assault, incitement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, and harassment without violence.
The case drew national attention earlier this year after sparking anti-migrant protests outside the Bell Hotel, which serves as temporary accommodation for asylum seekers.
Authorities confirmed that Kebatu was mistakenly freed following his conviction and has not returned to custody. Police across the UK have been alerted and are coordinating efforts to locate him.
Officials have described the situation as serious, warning that the offender should not be approached by the public. Residents, particularly in Epping and surrounding areas, have been urged to remain vigilant and to report any possible sightings immediately to police.
The Home Office has launched an internal review into how the release occurred, as the incident has renewed scrutiny of the UK’s asylum-housing and offender-management systems.
Law enforcement sources say additional resources are being deployed to the Epping area, and surveillance around migrant housing facilities has been increased as part of the search.
Police have asked anyone with information on the suspect’s whereabouts to call 999 immediately.
