Police have launched a manhunt after an asylum seeker who sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl was mistakenly released from prison.
Ethiopian national Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who arrived in the UK on a small boat, was jailed for 12 months over the attack in Epping, Essex, last month.
Prison sources said Kebatu was meant to be sent to an immigration detention centre ahead of a planned deportation.
An investigation has been launched by the Prison Service and an officer has been removed from discharging duties while it takes place.
On 7 and 8 July, Kebatu sexually assaulted the teenager as well as a woman, with the attacks sparking nationwide protests.
In September, he was sentenced to 12 months and given a five-year sexual harm prevention order, which banned him from approaching or contacting any female.
He was also made to sign the Sex Offenders Register for ten years.
Kebatu had been living at the Bell Hotel in Epping before his arrest.
A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We are urgently working with police to return an offender to custody following a release in error at HMP Chelmsford.
“Public protection is our top priority and we have launched an investigation into this incident.”
Justice Secretary David Lammy said he was “appalled at the release in error at HMP Chelmsford”.
Lammy said: “We are urgently working with the police to track him down and I’ve ordered an urgent investigation.
“Kebatu must be deported for his crimes, not on our streets.”