In a bizarre New Year’s Eve incident, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri of the Zambian police was apprehended after he released 13 suspects from the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka while allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The suspects, who were detained on various charges—ranging from assault to robbery—are now at large, prompting a swift search effort by authorities.
Drunken Zambian Officer Released Suspects to Ring in New Year
Drunken Zambian Officer Released Suspects to Ring in New Year
A Zambian policeman was arrested for freeing 13 detainees to celebrate New Year’s Eve, leading to a manhunt for the escaped criminals.
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Phiri overpowered a constable and seized the keys to the cells. He then ordered the detainees to leave, telling them they were free to enter the new year. Out of the 15 individuals in custody at the time, 13 successfully escaped. Phiri subsequently fled the scene, and there has been no official comment from him regarding this incident.
This unusual escape has drawn public attention, with former presidential spokesperson Dickson Jere humorously reflecting on the event on Facebook, recalling a similar occurrence in 1997 when High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda released 53 suspects after a prolonged detention without trial.
While the police continue their search for the escaped detainees, this incident highlights ongoing issues within the Zambian justice system.
This unusual escape has drawn public attention, with former presidential spokesperson Dickson Jere humorously reflecting on the event on Facebook, recalling a similar occurrence in 1997 when High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda released 53 suspects after a prolonged detention without trial.
While the police continue their search for the escaped detainees, this incident highlights ongoing issues within the Zambian justice system.
