Migrant sex offender Hadush Kebatu was given £500 to be deported to Ethiopia following his mistaken release from prison, Sky News understands.

The government, who confirmed he was escorted on to a plane at Heathrow Airport on Tuesday night, said he has no right to return to the UK.

But Sky News understands Kebatu was handed a discretionary payment of £500 as part of efforts to avoid a lengthy legal challenge after he made threats to disrupt his removal.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she "pulled every lever" to deport Kebatu, although it is thought the decision about the payment was made by removal teams, not ministers.

"I am pleased to confirm this vile child sex offender has been deported. Our streets are safer because of it," she said.

Image: Hadush Kebatu seen on the pl

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