Convicted sex offender mistakenly released from prison’s quest to return raises alarm

After being mistakenly released from prison, a convicted sex offender identified as Hadush Kebatu attempted to return to prison but was directed to take a train instead. Kebatu, who had served a 12-month sentence for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex, was supposed to be deported to Ethiopia. The Metropolitan Police took over the search for him after Essex Police. Witnesses reported Kebatu appearing confused outside the prison, questioning why he was released. Despite being deported, Kebatu sought help from a delivery driver and was last seen boarding a London-bound train wearing a prison-issued tracksuit. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the release as “totally unacceptable” and emphasized the urgency of capturing and deporting Kebatu. The Met is actively pursuing Kebatu, who was sighted at Stratford station, urging anyone with information to contact the authorities immediately.