UK Resident Convicted of Sexual Assault, Incident Sparks Demonstrations Against Immigrants in Britain
In a case that has brought attention to the ongoing tensions surrounding the British government's asylum and migrant policies, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 41-year-old Ethiopian man, was found guilty of sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and harassment without violence at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court, located east of London.
The incidents, which occurred days after Kebatu had sought asylum in Britain, took place in London, England. One of the incidents involved Kebatu attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl on a bench in Epping, where he also put his hand on her thigh and stroked her hair. Another incident involved Kebatu sexually assaulting a woman who was helping him with his CV. He tried to kiss her, put his hand on her leg, and told her she was pretty.
The arrest and prosecution of Kebatu led to protests outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, where he was staying. Protests in Epping and other towns were attended by both local people and far-right activists, resulting in angry protests at hotels housing migrants in London. Tensions have simmered over the British government's policy of using hotels to house migrants awaiting asylum decisions.
Critics argue that this policy costs taxpayers millions of pounds and makes hotels flashpoints in communities. Migrants housed in these hotels often feel targeted by local residents. The British government, however, has pledged to stop migrants from reaching Britain across the Channel and to end the use of asylum hotels. The government acknowledges that ending this practice will take time.
The guilty verdict was handed down by Judge Christopher Williams, who has scheduled the sentencing of Kebatu for September 23. The name of the former hotel where Kebatu was housed before his arrest is not publicly available. Kebatu arrived in England by small boat approximately a week before the incidents occurred.
This case highlights the need for a balanced and humane approach to asylum seekers in the UK. As the British government continues to grapple with the complexities of its asylum and migrant policies, it is crucial that the rights and safety of all individuals are protected and respected.
