A FAILED asylum seeker from Zimbabwe was back in her Thamesmead home this week, after a surprise release from detention.

The 26-year-old was being held at the Yarlswood detention centre in Bedfordshire.

This was after she was detained by the authorities last December.

During her time at Yarlswood, she barricaded herself in, foiling an attempt to deport her back to Zimbabwe, and also went on a hunger strike.

Her case against deportation has been fought by Thamesmead and Erith MP John Austin.

He claims the woman could face arbitrary arrest and detention if she is returned to Zimbabwe.

Her brother, an active member of the main opposition party, is already dead after being tortured on his return from South Africa.

A High Court case is pending this week on the legality of deporting failed asylum seekers back to Zimbabwe.

Until that ruling, the Home Secretary has suspended the deportations.

Both the woman and Mr Austin said they were delighted by her unexpected release from Yarlswood.

She has been ordered to report back to the Home Office in September.