Two Prisoners Wrongly Released from HMP Wandsworth
Two inmates are currently at large after being mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth in south-west London. Among them is 24-year-old Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, an Algerian national convicted of sex offenses, who was incorrectly freed on October 29. Police were only informed about his escape six days later.
Details of the Incidents
- Brahim Kaddour-Cherif was convicted for flashing in Lloyd Park, Walthamstow in March 2024 and received a community order from Inner London Crown Court in November 2023 following his guilty plea to burglary and indecent exposure.
- On the same day he was sentenced for fraud, 35-year-old Billy Smith was also accidentally released from the prison on Monday.
Reactions from Political Leaders
“It is a total farce that another dangerous criminal is on the loose thanks to Labour,” said Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described the situation as “a shambles.”
Background Context
The release of Kaddour-Cherif follows a similar error involving Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, who was released from HMP Chelmsford just five days earlier, causing significant public concern.
Current Status
Police are actively searching for both escaped prisoners after these major oversights at the prison.
Summary: Two prisoners, including a convicted sex offender, were mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth, prompting political criticism and police manhunt amid concerns over prison management flaws.