The London Metropolitan Police have provided an update on the hunt for Hadush Kebatu.
The Epping migrant was meant to be sent to an immigration detention centre from HMP Chelmsford ahead of a planned deportation, but he was accidentally released from prison on Friday.
Speaking to reporters, Met Police Commander James Conway said Kebatu has "made a number of train journeys" across London since his release.
Police believe Kebatu "has access to funds" and has "sought assistance from members of the public".
Mr Conway said that police believe Kebatu "has access to funds"
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Mr Conway then made a direct appeal to Kebatu: "We want to locate you in a safe and controlled way. You had already indicated a desire to return to Ethiopia when speaking to immigration staff.
"The best outcome for you is to make contact directly with us by either calling 999 or reporting yourself to a police station."
Mr Conway said: "Following his release from prison, Mr Kebatu made his way to Chelmsford train station, where he boarded a train that departed at 12:42pm and arrived at Stratford station at 1:12pm yesterday afternoon.
"Mr Kebatu was released wearing a prison-issued grey tracksuit and carrying a clear plastic bag containing his possessions. Since then, he has made a number of train journeys across the London area.
"We believe he has access to funds and, crucially, that he has sought assistance from members of the public and spoken to station staff in both Chelmsford and London.
"If you have had any direct contact with him, or are currently providing him with assistance, we are very keen to hear from you. You may have information that could help us establish his whereabouts.
"Later today, we will be releasing new footage of Mr Kebatu in London.
"If you have seen the person in this footage or know of his whereabouts within the past 24 hours, please call 101 and tell us."
Kebatu boarded a London-bound train from Chelmsford
| CROWN PROSECUTION SERVICEEssex Police inquiries show that Kebatu boarded a London-bound train from Chelmsford and Scotland Yard has now taken over the investigation.
After boarding train from Chelmsford, Kebatu eventually got off a service that stopped at Stratford at around 1.10pm.
Now, leading the manhunt, Mr Conway says finding Kebatu is a “top priority.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called the release “totally unacceptable” and said Kebatu “must be caught and deported for his crimes.”
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