A Zambian policeman, reportedly intoxicated, has been suspended after releasing 13 suspects from police custody to celebrate the New Year. The incident occurred in the Kapiri Mposhi district, where the officer, believed to be under the influence of alcohol, decided to free the detainees. The act has raised concerns about the police officer’s professionalism and adherence to protocol. Authorities have taken swift action, suspending the officer while an investigation into the matter is underway. This incident has sparked discussions about the importance of discipline and accountability within law enforcement.
The Zambian police officer, identified as Inspector Titus Phiri, allegedly freed 13 detainees on New Year’s Eve while under the influence of alcohol, sparking a manhunt for the escaped suspects. Phiri reportedly took the cell keys from Constable Serah Banda at the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka and released individuals who were held for various crimes, including assault, robbery, and burglary.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, and the officer’s actions have raised concerns about discipline and accountability within the police force. The suspects who escaped are being actively pursued, and law enforcement officials are working to bring them back into custody.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga provided further details about the incident, describing how Inspector Titus Phiri, in a state of intoxication, forcibly seized the cell keys from Constable Serah Banda. He unlocked both the male and female cells and allegedly instructed the suspects to leave, telling them they were free to cross into the New Year. Hamoonga emphasized the gravity of the situation and confirmed that an investigation had been launched to address the officer’s actions. Authorities are also working to recapture the escaped suspects.
