Ethiopian Asylum Seeker Faces Court: Alleged Schoolgirl Assault

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker, appeared in court accused of attempting to assault a 14-year-old schoolgirl in Epping. The incident reportedly occurred when Kebatu tried to grab and kiss the girl as she sat with her friends after school.

According to witness testimony, Kebatu fled the scene after the alleged assault. A woman who witnessed the incident pursued him, calling 999 after catching him. The court heard that Kebatu begged for forgiveness, with video evidence showing him apologizing and getting on his knees, presented by Prosecutor Stuart Cowen.

The court also heard claims that Kebatu asked the girl to join him at his hotel and made inappropriate comments about wanting to have children with her. The girl's friend confirmed these allegations in a video interview, noting their discomfort and surprise at Kebatu's actions.

Defence lawyer Molly Dyas argued against these allegations, suggesting Kebatu neither approached the children for pizza nor made inappropriate remarks. Instead, she maintained that he did not sit with them or touch the girl. However, the witnesses stand firm in their accounts of the incident.

Kebatu's arrest has sparked significant unrest in the community, leading to anti-migrant demonstrations in Epping. The protests prompted the local council to obtain an injunction to close the Bell Hotel, where Kebatu and other migrants were residing. Alongside Kebatu, a Syrian migrant, Mohammed Sharwarq, has been charged with a separate sexual assault, which he denies.

The allegations against Kebatu include three counts of sexual assault, one attempted sexual assault, one charge of harassment, and one charge of attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity. Kebatu has denied all charges, and the trial continues as the court examines the evidence and testimony.

This case has brought attention to the ongoing issues surrounding migrant accommodations and community safety, sparking wider discussions about the challenges and complexities of migration and legal procedures. Communities have raised concerns about the impact of such incidents on local safety and relations.

As the trial progresses, the spotlight remains on how this case will influence public perception and policy regarding migrants in the UK. The situation underscores the need for dialogue and effective solutions to ensure community safety while addressing the needs and rights of migrants.