Newly released figures from the UK Ministry of Justice have revealed that 91 prisoners were accidentally released between April 1 and October 31, 2025. The shocking data exposes serious flaws in prison management and sentencing procedures, prompting widespread public concern and renewed political scrutiny.
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What Happened?
According to official reports, the accidental releases occurred due to a range of administrative errors, including incorrect warrants, sentence miscalculations, and procedural mistakes by courts and other authorities.
The issue gained national attention following the mistaken release of Hadush Kebatu, a migrant whose case drew protests in Epping, Essex. The incident prompted Justice Secretary David Lammy to announce new security measures and launch an independent investigation into the causes of such errors.
However, soon after Kebatu’s release, two more prisoners were mistakenly freed, deepening the controversy and fueling criticism of Lammy’s department.
Key Cases That Sparked Concern
Among the most notable cases is Hadush Kebatu, whose wrongful release exposed serious weaknesses in communication and coordination within the justice system.
Another case involved Brahim Kaddour Sherif, an Algerian sex offender who was mistakenly released on October 29, 2025, despite being placed under strict supervision just days earlier. Sherif was later re-arrested on November 7, but his release raised questions about how such a failure could occur after heightened scrutiny.
Additionally, William Smith, a convicted fraudster who had also been mistakenly freed, voluntarily surrendered himself the day before Sherif’s re-arrest.
These repeated incidents have intensified calls for reform and greater accountability within the Ministry of Justice.
Government Response and Growing Criticism
The Ministry of Justice has acknowledged the issue and promised a full internal investigation. David Lammy pledged tighter safety checks and procedural reforms, but the government’s handling of the crisis has drawn intense criticism from opposition leaders and the public alike.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick called the situation “deeply alarming,” warning that the recent errors could represent just the tip of the iceberg. The Tory MP demanded a comprehensive inquiry and immediate corrective action.
According to recent reports, four additional prisoners were discovered to have been mistakenly released, with one now back in custody and three still at large.
Alarming Statistics and Wider Implications
Government data shows a 128% increase in accidental prisoner releases — from 115 cases last year to 262 by March 2025. Experts link this surge to the government’s early release program, implemented to relieve severe prison overcrowding.
The growing number of errors has sparked serious concerns about public safety, judicial oversight, and system reliability, particularly as more cases continue to surface.
Public and Political Reaction
Public outrage has been swift. Many are questioning how such errors could occur in a country with one of the world’s most advanced judicial systems.
Opposition parties, legal experts, and citizens are calling for greater transparency, systemic reform, and tighter accountability from the Ministry of Justice. The fear that dangerous offenders may still be at large has only intensified demands for immediate government action.
What Happens Next?
As investigations continue, Justice Secretary David Lammy faces growing pressure to explain how the mistakes occurred and what corrective measures will be implemented. Lawmakers are expected to raise further questions in Parliament in the coming weeks.
The Ministry of Justice is urging anyone with relevant information about the accidental releases or concerns regarding public safety to come forward as inquiries proceed.
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