In a startling security lapse that has raised serious questions about prison procedures, a dangerous criminal was mistakenly set free from a Category C prison in Essex.
Hadush Kebatu, who was serving time for serious offences including possession of a firearm and assault, walked out of HMP Chelmsford on Wednesday afternoon due to what authorities are calling an "administrative error."
The Great Escape That Should Never Have Happened
The 25-year-old convict, described as posing significant risk to the public, remained at large for several hours while police launched an urgent manhunt. The breach occurred when prison staff incorrectly processed Kebatu's release paperwork.
Essex Police confirmed they were alerted to the situation around 4:30 PM and immediately deployed resources to locate the fugitive. Local residents in the Chelmsford area were advised to remain vigilant while the search continued.
Dramatic Recapture in Epping Town Centre
The tense situation concluded when police officers spotted and apprehended Kebatu in Epping, approximately 20 miles from the prison. Witnesses reported seeing multiple police vehicles and officers making the arrest in the town centre.
"We can confirm a 25-year-old man who was mistakenly released from HMP Chelmsford has been found and arrested in Epping," an Essex Police spokesperson stated. "He is now back in custody."
Serious Questions for Prison Authorities
This incident represents one of the most serious security breaches in the UK prison system in recent years. HMP Chelmsford, which houses approximately 700 inmates, now faces intense scrutiny over its release procedures.
The Ministry of Justice has launched an immediate investigation into how such a fundamental error could occur, particularly involving an offender with Kebatu's criminal history.
Prison reform advocates have described the incident as "deeply concerning" and are calling for a complete review of release protocols across the prison estate to prevent similar occurrences.
The Independent has approached the Ministry of Justice for further comment on the disciplinary measures being considered for staff involved in the erroneous release.
