British authorities are searching for two inmates mistakenly released from prison — Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, convicted of sexual assault, and William Smith, accused of fraud. The men were released on October 29 and November 5 amid what officials called a major administrative failure.
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy announced stricter prison controls and an urgent review of the system. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick criticized the “complete and utter mess,” noting that police were notified nearly a week late.
According to official data, 262 prisoners were mistakenly released across the UK within a year.