A report has revealed that 5,450 offenders who should be wearing electronic monitoring devices are not being tracked, raising concerns about public safety and oversight. The Ministry of Justice acknowledged that it does not have information on the whereabouts of these individuals, who are meant to be monitored via ankle tags following their release from custody or as part of court-imposed restrictions.

This number represents approximately 15 percent of the total population of offenders subject to electronic tagging. The figures come amid plans to expand the use of electronic monitoring, with proposals under the Labour Party’s agenda aiming to release an additional 22,000 offenders early on electronic tags starting in 2027.

Critics of current monitoring practices expressed alarm at the findings. Nick Timothy, a Conservative commentator, said the report highlights how offenders are able to breach restrictions "with impunity," suggesting that gaps in the system may be undermining efforts to manage and rehabilitate offenders effectively.

In response, the Ministry of Justice emphasized ongoing investments in technology and infrastructure, noting that £100 million is being dedicated to electric monitoring systems. Officials indicated that this funding is intended to strengthen supervision, reduce the number of offenders not being tracked, and enhance overall public safety.

The report raises questions about the current capacity and reliability of electronic monitoring operations, as well as the challenges faced in maintaining oversight of those released from prison or serving community sentences. As monitoring programs are set to expand in the coming years, authorities face mounting pressure to ensure that the systems in place can effectively manage the growing number of individuals under electronic surveillance.