On New Year’s Eve, a Drunken Police Officer in Zambia Frees 13 Suspects

On New Year’s Eve, a drunk Zambian police officer released 13 detainees, leading to a manhunt and public indignation.

A intoxicated police officer in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, freed 13 detainees from detention on New Year’s Eve, leaving authorities reeling.

After releasing the detainees from their cells at Leonard Cheelo Police Station and allegedly told them they were “free to cross over into the new year,” Detective Inspector Titus Phiri was taken into custody.

Before opening the male and female detention cells, the officer “forcibly seized cell keys” from Constable Serah Banda while intoxicated, according to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga.

Thirteen of the fifteen suspects detained at the station managed to get away. The detainees were charged with major offenses such as burglary, robbery, and assault.

Mr. Phiri left the station after the tumultuous scene. Since then, authorities have started a manhunt to find the escapees and the officer. Regarding the incident and the accusations made against him, Mr. Phiri has remained silent.

The public has responded to the incident with both humor and indignation. Dickson Jere, a former lawyer and presidential spokesperson, expressed his opinion on Facebook, describing the situation as “comical” before bringing up a comparable instance from 1997. That year, 53 detainees—some deemed dangerous—who had been detained since 1992 without a trial were ordered to be released by controversial High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda. “Justice delayed, is justice denied,” said Judge Chanda in defense of his conduct.

Although the reasons for Mr. Phiri’s actions are yet unknown, the episode has brought up important issues regarding the behavior of Zambian law enforcement and the administration of prison centers. In the aftermath of this remarkable New Year’s Eve event, authorities are rushing to restore order as the fleeing suspects remain at large.