Drunk Zambian Police Officer Frees 13 Suspects To Celebrate New Year
In an unusual New Year’s Eve incident, a Zambian police officer reportedly intoxicated released 13 detainees from a Lusaka police station, prompting a manhunt for the escaped suspects.
The BBC reported that Inspector Titus Phiri, under the influence of alcohol, seized cell keys from Constable Serah Banda at the Leonard Cheelo Police Station. Phiri allegedly freed individuals held on charges ranging from assault to robbery and burglary.
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, “In a state of intoxication, [Phiri] forcibly seized cell keys… unlocked both the male and female cells, and instructed the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the new year.”
Out of the 15 detainees in custody, 13 took advantage of the situation and escaped. Phiri himself fled the station afterward and has yet to respond to the allegations.
This bizarre incident has drawn comparisons to a notable 1997 case when the late High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda ordered the release of 53 detainees. At the time, Judge Chanda condemned the prolonged detention of suspects, some of whom had been held without trial since 1992. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” he declared.
Lawyer and former presidential spokesperson Dickson Jere shared his thoughts on the incident via Facebook, saying, “I keep laughing each time I picture the scenario – comical! But then, I remembered a similar incident in 1997.”
Zambian authorities are actively working to recapture the escaped suspects and investigate the actions of Inspector Phiri. The incident has sparked discussions on police accountability and the importance of professional conduct within law enforcement.
