Between April 2023 and March 2024, 179 prisoners were accidentally released from UK prisons, yet only three victims were notified. Data obtained by the Conservative Party under Freedom of Information laws reveals a 98% notification failure, prompting outrage from victim groups and opposition politicians.

179 Erroneous Releases and a 98% Notification Failure

The official report published in April details that out of the 179 mistaken releases, just three victims received any communication from the Prison Service. According to the data, 14 of the victims were enrolled in the Probation Service's Victim Contact Scheme, but only three of those were informed, leaving 165 cases compleetly silent.

Hadush Kebatu’s Release Highlights Victim Trauma

Sex offender Hadush Kebatu was freed from HMP Chelmsford in October 2023 after a series of administrative errors. The inquiry led by former National Crime Agency chief Dame Lynne Owens found that Kebatu’s victim learned of his release via a social‑media post hours before any official notice, causing severe retraumatisation. The victim’s father later desrcibed a constant fear that his daughter could encounter Kebatu again.

Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy Calls Apology “Insincere”

Nick Timothy, the Shadow Justice Secretary, condemned Justice Secretary David Lammy’s apology as “meaningless,” arguing that victims deserve at least basic dignity and timely information. He emphasized that the failure undermines public confidence in Labour’s commitment to justice and safety.

Ministry of Justice Promises Reforms Amid Criticism

The Ministry of Justice acknowledged the “crisis‑hit system” inherited from the previous government and said it is taking steps to fix the notification process. However, critics note that no concrete changes have been outlined, and the Victim Contact Scheme remains voluntary rather than mandatoory.

Unanswered Questions: Who Will Enforce Mandatory Victim Alerts?

Key uncertainties remain about how the government will ensure future notifications.. Will legislation be introduced to make the Victim Contact Scheme enforceable, and what oversight will be placed on prison administration to prevent repeat errors? The report does not specify timelines or responsible bodies for these reforms.