Ethiopian Asylum Seeker Denies Sexual Assault Charges Amid Protests
Published 27 August 2025
Highlights
- Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker, is accused of sexually assaulting two 14-year-old girls and a woman in Epping, Essex, on 7 and 8 July.
- Kebatu denies all charges, including sexual assault, inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and harassment without violence.
- His arrest led to anti-immigration protests outside The Bell Hotel, where he was staying as an asylum seeker.
- Kebatu claims he only greeted the girls and was concerned about his asylum case, denying any inappropriate behavior.
- The trial at Colchester Magistrates' Court has attracted significant public attention and media coverage.
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Rewritten Article
Ethiopian Asylum Seeker Denies Sexual Assault Charges Amid Protests
Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker residing at The Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, has vehemently denied allegations of sexual assault against two teenage girls and a woman. The charges, which include inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and harassment without violence, have sparked anti-immigration protests outside the hotel.
Allegations and Defense
The incidents allegedly occurred on 7 and 8 July, when Kebatu is accused of approaching the girls in Epping town centre. Witnesses claim he made inappropriate comments, such as suggesting they would make "good wives" and attempting to kiss one of the girls. Kebatu, however, insists he merely greeted them and denies any misconduct. "I am not a wild animal," Kebatu stated in court, emphasizing his respect for the girls as "the future of tomorrow."
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The case has ignited public demonstrations, with far-right groups protesting against asylum seekers outside the hotel. Kebatu, who arrived in the UK after a perilous journey through several countries, expressed concern about the impact of the trial on his asylum claim and fellow migrants. The trial, held at Colchester Magistrates' Court, has drawn significant media attention, with Kebatu's defense arguing that the allegations are unfounded and motivated by anti-immigrant sentiment.
Witness Testimonies and Courtroom Developments
During the trial, a woman testified via video link, describing her shock and discomfort after Kebatu allegedly touched her thigh. She also witnessed him touching one of the girls. Kebatu, through an interpreter, claimed the woman was intoxicated and had threatened to call the police if he did not visit her home. CCTV footage showed Kebatu on his knees, apologizing to the woman, which he explained was an attempt to calm her.
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Scenario Analysis
The outcome of Hadush Kebatu's trial could have significant implications for both his asylum status and the broader public discourse on immigration in the UK. If found guilty, Kebatu may face deportation, which could further fuel anti-immigration sentiments. Conversely, an acquittal might lead to increased scrutiny of the motivations behind such allegations against asylum seekers. Legal experts suggest that the case highlights the complex intersection of immigration issues and criminal justice, emphasizing the need for fair and unbiased legal proceedings.
Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker residing at The Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, has vehemently denied allegations of sexual assault against two teenage girls and a woman. The charges, which include inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and harassment without violence, have sparked anti-immigration protests outside the hotel.
Allegations and Defense
The incidents allegedly occurred on 7 and 8 July, when Kebatu is accused of approaching the girls in Epping town centre. Witnesses claim he made inappropriate comments, such as suggesting they would make "good wives" and attempting to kiss one of the girls. Kebatu, however, insists he merely greeted them and denies any misconduct. "I am not a wild animal," Kebatu stated in court, emphasizing his respect for the girls as "the future of tomorrow."
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The case has ignited public demonstrations, with far-right groups protesting against asylum seekers outside the hotel. Kebatu, who arrived in the UK after a perilous journey through several countries, expressed concern about the impact of the trial on his asylum claim and fellow migrants. The trial, held at Colchester Magistrates' Court, has drawn significant media attention, with Kebatu's defense arguing that the allegations are unfounded and motivated by anti-immigrant sentiment.
Witness Testimonies and Courtroom Developments
During the trial, a woman testified via video link, describing her shock and discomfort after Kebatu allegedly touched her thigh. She also witnessed him touching one of the girls. Kebatu, through an interpreter, claimed the woman was intoxicated and had threatened to call the police if he did not visit her home. CCTV footage showed Kebatu on his knees, apologizing to the woman, which he explained was an attempt to calm her.
What this might mean
The outcome of Hadush Kebatu's trial could have significant implications for both his asylum status and the broader public discourse on immigration in the UK. If found guilty, Kebatu may face deportation, which could further fuel anti-immigration sentiments. Conversely, an acquittal might lead to increased scrutiny of the motivations behind such allegations against asylum seekers. Legal experts suggest that the case highlights the complex intersection of immigration issues and criminal justice, emphasizing the need for fair and unbiased legal proceedings.
