Tensions Erupt Outside Essex Asylum Hotel After Migrant Charged with Sexually Assaulting Schoolgirl
Hundreds of angry residents gathered outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex on Thursday evening (17 July 2025) in protest following the court appearance of an asylum seeker accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.
The hotel, which has reportedly been used as refugee accommodation for five years, became the focal point of rising community anger after 38-year-old Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, an Ethiopian national, was charged with multiple sexual offences, including:
- Three counts of sexual assault
- One count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity
- One count of harassment without violence
Kebatu, who was arrested on July 8, denied all charges during an appearance at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on 10 July.
Mass Demonstration and Counter-Protests
The protest attracted a large and diverse crowd, including retired residents, parents, and middle-aged men, many waving Union Jacks and “Save Our Kids” banners.
A counter-protest by anti-racism activists was also present, holding signs saying “Refugees Welcome – Stop the Far-Right.” The confrontation between the two groups escalated into verbal abuse and minor violence, with reports of bottles, cans, and eggs being thrown.
Essex Police deployed riot vans and officers to manage the situation and block access to the hotel’s car park.
A 74-year-old protester said: “The whole of Epping is united. How is it our children can’t walk home from school without being attacked?”
A local mother added: “This isn’t about racism. It’s about protecting our children. We don’t know who these men are, and they haven’t been checked.”
Police Response and Escalation
As the evening progressed, tensions grew. Protesters attempted to block police vehicles, and some breached police lines, snatching and throwing counter-protesters’ placards.
A temporary wire fence was recently erected at the Bell Hotel following an earlier demonstration earlier in the week.
At one point, children in balaclavas joined adults in blocking the road. Riot police formed a protective barrier around the approximately 50 anti-racism campaigners, who were outnumbered and surrounded by the larger protest crowd.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing
Essex Police confirmed Kebatu’s arrest came after multiple reports of inappropriate behaviour, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The public outcry has sparked renewed scrutiny over the use of temporary asylum accommodation in residential areas, with local residents demanding the closure of the Bell Hotel to migrants.
Essex Police have yet to confirm any arrests linked to Thursday’s protest.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation amid rising community tensions.
Anyone with concerns or information related to the incident is asked to contact Essex Police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
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