Protests in Epping were instigated by the arrest of an asylum seeker, who has now been convicted of sexual assault.
Asylum Seeker Found Guilty of Multiple Sexual Assaults
Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker, has been found guilty of sexual assault at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court. The incidents occurred days after Kebatu arrived in the UK on a small boat.
The court heard that Kebatu sexually assaulted an adult member of the public on July 8. During the incident, he touched her leg and tried to kiss her, leaving the victim feeling "shocked" and "uncomfortable."
On July 7, Kebatu offered pizza to a 14-year-old victim before attempting to kiss her. When confronted, he ran away but was later caught by the adult victim near the Bell Hotel while on a 999 call with police.
Kebatu was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault, one count of attempted sexual assault, one count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and one count of harassment without violence. He was also found to have sexually assaulted a woman by trying to kiss her, putting his hand on her leg, and telling her she was pretty.
In addition, it was revealed that Kebatu made inappropriate comments to the 14-year-old victim, suggesting she could be a good wife and offering to take her to the Bell Hotel to have babies. He also told two teenagers he wanted to "have a baby with each of them."
The adult victim confronted Kebatu when she saw him speaking to a "young schoolgirl." Kebatu's behavior during the confrontation was described as a lot of begging, pleading, apologizing, and saying he was going and it was a mistake.
The guilty verdict was returned by District Judge Christopher Williams in just 30 minutes. Kebatu gave no visible reaction to the verdict and is due to be sentenced at a later date.
The incidents sparked protests and counter-protests in Epping, Essex, and further demonstrations outside hotels housing asylum seekers across the country. It is worth noting that before his arrest in June 2023, Kebatu was allegedly involved in organizing or participating in demonstrations against asylum seeker accommodation centers at various locations in the United Kingdom.
Before arriving in the UK, Kebatu was a "teacher of sports" in his home country.
The news serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the law and ensuring the safety of all members of the public, regardless of their background or circumstances.
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