Justice Secretary David Lammy has initiated an independent investigation into the erroneous release of a failed asylum seeker who sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl. Ethiopian national Hadush Kebatu was apprehended on Sunday after a two-day search following his mistaken release from HMP Chelmsford instead of being transferred to an immigration detention facility.
Lammy informed Members of Parliament that Kebatu would be promptly deported to Ethiopia. Nevertheless, he expressed deep concern on behalf of the victims and the public, emphasizing that the error in releasing Kebatu should not have occurred. He stressed the need for accountability for the blunder and underscored the importance of preventing similar erroneous releases to safeguard the public.
Dame Lynn Owens, a former deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, has been tasked by the Justice Secretary to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kebatu’s release. Enhanced checks will now be implemented for all prisoner releases following a rapid review of procedures by the head of His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS).
Moving forward, there will be heightened senior oversight to ensure proper checks are conducted, including a detailed checklist for governors to confirm adherence to all required steps the night before any release. Foreign nationals facing deportation will only be released in the presence of a duty governor, and removals from HMP Chelmsford have been temporarily suspended.
Lammy highlighted an increase in mistaken releases over the years, with the average rising from nine per month in 2023 to 17 per month between January and June 2024. The Justice Secretary also engaged in a heated exchange with Conservative opponent Robert Jenrick, attributing the problem to budget cuts and inadequate staffing in the justice system.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the impact of visa restrictions on prisons struggling to recruit personnel. Paul Crossey, governor of HMP Feltham, voiced apprehension over recent visa changes affecting foreign national officers, potentially impeding staffing stability. The Justice Minister, Jake Richards, confirmed ongoing discussions with the Home Office on this matter.
The government affirmed its commitment to reducing net migration while assuring that prison officers on Skilled Worker visas can continue working in the UK and apply for visa extensions as needed. Efforts are underway to bolster prison staffing, including initiatives to attract officers already settled in the UK.
