A senior Metropolitan Police officer has made a direct public appeal to Ethiopian national Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu to surrender himself after being mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford. Commander James Conway confirmed that the asylum seeker has undertaken extensive travel across London since his Friday release and appears to have access to funds.
Kebatu made his initial escape by train from Chelmsford station, departing at 12:42pm and arriving at Stratford station at 1:12pm. The asylum seeker was released wearing a prison-issued grey tracksuit and carrying a clear plastic bag containing his possessions.
Police Track Movements
Conway revealed that Kebatu has made multiple train journeys across the London area since his release. Police believe he has actively sought assistance from members of the public and spoken to railway station staff in both Chelmsford and London.
The commander appealed for anyone who has provided Kebatu with assistance to contact authorities immediately. He urged the public to call 999 if they spot the missing man, emphasising the importance of public cooperation in locating him safely.
Direct Appeal Made
In a personal message to Kebatu, Conway emphasised that police want to locate him "in a safe and controlled way". The commander stressed that cooperation would be in Kebatu's best interests given his circumstances.
"You had already indicated a desire to return to Ethiopia when speaking to immigration staff, the best outcome for you is to make contact directly with us by either calling 999 or reporting yourself to a police station," Conway stated directly to the missing asylum seeker.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
