38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu has been sentenced to a year in prison for a disturbing series of offences, including the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl in Epping, Essex. Kebatu, who only arrived in the UK days before these incidents, was found guilty of five offences after a three-day trial. His actions led to widespread protests and counter-protests, highlighting public fear and concerns over the safety of children.
The judge called out Kebatu’s lack of remorse, stating his regret was more about being caught than the pain he caused. Kebatu reportedly told two teenagers he wanted to “have a baby with each of them” and attempted to kiss them, before sexually assaulting one. He also targeted a woman, trying to kiss her and call her pretty.
Kebatu’s future in the UK looks grim – under current laws, he faces deportation after serving his time. Outside the courthouse, tensions are still high with protests reflecting the unrest his actions have caused across the UK. This incident has sadly triggered a wave of fear impacting law-abiding asylum seekers around the country.