Ethiopian Asylum Seeker Jailed 12 Months in Essex Sparks Nationwide Protests

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker residing at The Bell Hotel in Epping, UK, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and another woman shortly after arriving in the UK by boat. Kebatu was found guilty of multiple offenses including attempted sexual assault, with victims describing feelings of vulnerability and fear following the incidents. His actions sparked widespread protests outside the hotel, which escalated tensions around immigration issues in the UK, leading to numerous arrests related to disorder. Kebatu's lawyer stated he wishes to be deported, while the court noted his manipulative behavior and poor regard for women, and rejected suspending the sentence despite his suicide attempt during remand. The case has intensified debates about asylum seeker housing and immigration policy in Britain ahead of the next election. Authorities continue to manage the fallout from the protests, highlighting the broader societal impact of the case.