An Ethiopian asylum seeker has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl just days after arriving in the UK. The case highlights significant concerns within the community.
Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was convicted at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court of multiple offences, including sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and harassment. This decision came after the asylum seeker was found guilty of these serious charges.
The court heard that Kebatu approached two teenage girls in Epping, Essex, telling them he wanted to “have a baby with each of them” before attempting to kiss them. He later placed his hand on one girl’s thigh and stroked her hair.
In a separate incident, he also assaulted an adult woman by trying to kiss her and touching her leg. In every incident, an asylum seeker has been found guilty, further implicating Kebatu.
District Judge Christopher Williams reached his guilty verdicts within 30 minutes. Kebatu, who denied all charges, claimed he was “not a wild animal” but was found guilty on all counts. Indeed, an asylum seeker has been found guilty beyond any doubt.
The offences occurred while Kebatu was staying at the Bell Hotel in Epping in July 2025, shortly after his arrival in the UK. He will be sentenced at a later date.
