British authorities continue to search for an asylum seeker who was mistakenly released from prison on Friday morning, where he was serving a sentence for sexual violence against a 14-year-old girl, reports LETA citing DPA.
38-year-old Ethiopian national Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who was residing at the Bell Hotel in Epping, southeast England, was sentenced to 12 months in prison in September.
Justice Minister David Lammy stated on Friday evening that Kebatu is "at large in London" after taking a train from Chelmsford station. He is being sought by the Metropolitan Police.
The newspaper The Sun reported on Friday that Kebatu was supposed to be transferred to an immigration detention center for subsequent deportation, but due to a misunderstanding, he was released.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the release "completely unacceptable."
"I am outraged that this has happened, and an investigation is underway. The police are urgently working to apprehend him, and my government is supporting them. This man must be caught and deported for his crimes," the Prime Minister stated.
Lammy, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, said he is "outraged on behalf of the community" and has already initiated an investigation into the matter.
Opposition spokesperson for home affairs Chris Philp described Kebatu's release as a "staggering incompetence" and called for a public inquiry.
"We absolutely need a public inquiry into how this dangerous illegal migrant, who committed sexual violence against a child, ended up free. We also expect urgent apologies from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Justice Minister David Lammy, who allowed this failure to happen," Philp said.
Kebatu arrived in the UK on a small boat. In July, he harassed two teenagers, claiming he wanted "a child from both of them," and attempted to kiss them. He placed his hand on one girl's thigh and stroked her hair.
The court found that he also harassed a woman, attempting to kiss her, placing his hand on her leg, and giving her compliments.
The migrant was found guilty on five counts after a three-day trial at Chelmsford and Colchester courts.
During sentencing, it was noted that he was "determined" to be deported.
The Home Office was prepared to transfer him to an immigration detention center ahead of his planned deportation from the UK.
Kebatu's case has sparked protests and counter-protests in Epping and outside hotels housing asylum seekers.
