Ethiopian Asylum Seeker Guilty of Assaulting Teen Days After UK Arrival
An Ethiopian asylum seeker has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl just days after setting foot in the UK. The shocking case has sparked serious concerns across the community.
Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu Convicted at Magistrates’ Court
Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was convicted at 1 Magistrates’ Court of multiple offences. These include sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and harassment. The court took just 30 minutes to reach its guilty verdicts.
Kebatu denied all charges, insisting, “I’m not a wild animal.” But the judge, District Judge Christopher Williams, found him guilty beyond doubt.
Disturbing Incidents in Epping, Essex
The court heard Kebatu approached two teenage girls in Epping, Essex, telling them he wanted to “have a baby with each of them” before trying to kiss them. He also placed his hand on one girl’s thigh and stroked her hair.
In a separate incident, Kebatu assaulted an adult woman by attempting to kiss her and touching her leg. These incidents happened while Kebatu was staying at the Bell Hotel in Epping in July 2025, just after arriving in the UK.
Sentencing and Community Shock
Kebatu will be sentenced at a later date. This case has thrown a spotlight on the challenges posed by some asylum seekers shortly after arrival, raising difficult questions about community safety and screening processes.
