In a bizarre incident, a police detective in Zambia freed 13 detainees from custody on New Year’s Eve to let them celebrate the holiday.
The officer, identified as Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, was reportedly intoxicated during the incident at the Leonard Cheelo Police Station in Lusaka, the nation’s capital.
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Phiri “forcibly seized cell keys” from Constable Serah Banda while under the influence of alcohol. He then unlocked the male and female detention cells, instructing the suspects to leave, stating they were “free to cross over into the new year.”
The escapees, accused of crimes including assault, robbery, and burglary, remain at large, prompting a manhunt. Out of the 15 suspects held in custody, 13 fled the scene.
Detective Inspector Phiri also fled after the incident and has since been arrested. He has yet to comment on the allegations.
The incident has sparked both shock and humor. Former presidential spokesperson and lawyer Dickson Jere shared his reaction on Facebook, describing the scenario as “comical” but drawing parallels to a similar event in 1997. In that year, the late High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda controversially ordered the release of 53 detainees who had been held without trial since 1992, citing the legal maxim, “Justice delayed is justice denied.”
As authorities work to recapture the fugitives, the case highlights ongoing challenges in law enforcement and justice administration in Zambia.
