Migrant Sex Offender’s Attempt to Hand Himself In Before Arrest in London

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, claimed he tried to surrender to police the day before his arrest in London. He told Sky News that he approached police, but they ignored him. The Metropolitan Police has expressed doubt regarding his claims and stated that his actions during the arrest seemed more like those of someone trying to avoid officers. Kebatu was eventually deported to Ethiopia with a team of escorts after being mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford. While in Ethiopia, Kebatu alleged that he approached a police officer, seeking assistance on the morning of his arrest, but was ignored. The Metropolitan Police stated that the officers who responded to his sighting were actively pursuing him. Downing Street confirmed that Kebatu was given £500 after threatening to disrupt his deportation flight, in an effort to avoid delays and higher costs. The move has caused controversy, with the Conservatives criticizing the decision to financially assist a convicted criminal with leaving the country. Kebatu had been living in Epping, Essex, where he committed sexual assaults that led to his arrest, trial, and eventual deportation.