Key Highlights
- Four prisoners remain at large after being mistakenly freed in 2024 and June 2025.
- The Ministry of Justice faces growing pressure over the mistaken releases.
- A total of 262 prisoners were mistakenly freed in England and Wales from March to March, up from 115 the previous year.
- Minister David Lammy has ordered new release checks and an independent investigation into systemic failures.
Growing Concerns Over Mistaken Prison Releases
The Ministry of Justice is under scrutiny following a series of high-profile cases where prisoners have been mistakenly freed, leaving some at large. As of 1 day ago, four individuals remain unaccounted for after being erroneously released from their sentences.
High-Profile Cases Highlighting Mistakes
Two men were recently recaptured following manhunts in London. Algerian national Brahim Kaddour-Cherif was mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth on 29 October and later arrested, while William Smith voluntarily returned to custody after being let out on a clerical error at Croydon Crown Court.
Hadush Kebatu, who was jailed for sexually assaulting minors in the UK, was also freed by mistake but was eventually recaptured and deported. These cases come as the government faces criticism over the increased number of erroneous releases, with 262 prisoners released incorrectly in the year to March 2024, up from 115 the previous year.
Government’s Response
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson stated that the vast majority of offenders are quickly recaptured and that they will work with police to find those still at large. Despite this assurance, shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick has accused the government of incompetence, saying that ministers should provide more transparency on the number of mistakenly released prisoners.
Liberal Democrat spokeswoman Jess Brown-Fuller echoed concerns, emphasizing the need for immediate action: “Every resource must go into finding these prisoners. It’s a disgrace and an omnishambles.”
Policy and Future Implications
Minister David Lammy acknowledged the problem but stressed his commitment to addressing it. “We inherited a prison system in crisis, and I am personally appalled at the rate of releases in error,” he said. “I have ordered new tough release checks and will begin overhauling archaic paper-based systems.”
The situation highlights challenges within the justice system and raises questions about the reliability of digital records and clerical procedures. As the government continues to implement measures, experts and the public will be watching closely for improvements in prison management and oversight.
