In a bizarre incident in Zambia, a drunk police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, reportedly released 13 suspects from custody on New Year’s Eve, claiming they were free to celebrate the occasion.
The incident occurred at Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka, where the suspects, detained for crimes such as robbery, assault, and burglary, escaped.
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Phiri, “in a state of intoxication,” seized cell keys from Constable Serah Banda and unlocked both male and female cells before fleeing the scene. Of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 managed to escape.
Authorities have launched a manhunt to recapture the fugitives and apprehend Phiri, who is yet to comment on the allegations. The officer’s actions have sparked widespread reactions, with many calling for stricter oversight of law enforcement personnel.
This incident has drawn comparisons to a 1997 case in which High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda ordered the release of 53 long-detained suspects, citing the principle that “justice delayed is justice denied.” However, unlike Phiri’s actions, the judge’s decision was rooted in concerns over prolonged detention without trial.
