Wandsworth Manhunt: Two Prisoners Accidentally Freed
The Metropolitan Police have launched two separate manhunts after HMP Wandsworth in south London confirmed that two inmates were mistakenly released within days of each other. The incidents have sparked renewed concerns about prison procedures and record-keeping.
First Incident: Hadush Kebatu Released in Error
On 29 October, a foreign national was accidentally released from HMP Wandsworth, only five days after the mistaken release of migrant sex offender Hadush Kebatu from HMP Chelmsford in Essex.
"Just days after migrant sex offender Hadush Kebatu was released in error, statistics show 262 prisoners were freed by mistake in the year leading up to March 2025."
Second Error: William Smith Missing
On Wednesday, Surrey Police announced a second case. Officers are searching for 35-year-old William Smith, who was apparently released on Monday due to another administrative error at the same prison.
Government Response and Rising Statistics
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy previously promised stricter release checks for prisoners. However, data reveals that the number of mistaken releases has sharply risen — 262 between March 2024 and March 2025, marking a 128% increase from 115 the year before.
About the Investigation
- Police are coordinating searches across south London and Surrey.
- The Ministry of Justice has confirmed internal reviews of both incidents.
- Authorities have urged anyone with information about the fugitives to contact local police immediately.
Author’s Summary: Two erroneous prisoner releases at HMP Wandsworth have triggered police manhunts and government scrutiny amid a steep rise in similar mistakes.