Drunken Zambian policeman freed 13 suspects to celebrate New Year
3 min read
A drunken Zambian police officer has sparked widespread shock and laughter after he freed 13 detainees from the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka to allow them to celebrate the New Year. Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time, forcibly took the keys to the holding cells from constable Serah Banda before unlocking both the male and female cells. He instructed the detainees to leave the station, telling them they were free to “cross over into the new year.”
The 13 suspects, who were being held for crimes such as assault, robbery, and burglary, took advantage of the unexpected freedom and escaped. Only two detainees remained in custody, while the rest fled into the night, prompting the police to launch a manhunt to apprehend them. Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the incident, adding that Phiri then disappeared from the scene, leaving his actions unexplained.
The released suspects are now on the run, and authorities are urging the public to assist with information that could lead to their capture. It is unclear whether Phiri, who has not yet commented on the incident, intended to release the suspects on a whim or if he had another motivation behind his actions. As of now, Phiri faces serious charges related to his conduct, and the police are investigating the matter further.
The unusual turn of events has caused a stir across Zambia, with citizens expressing disbelief at the officer’s conduct. Many have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the situation, with some finding humor in the bizarre incident. Former presidential spokesperson and lawyer Dickson Jere wrote on Facebook that he couldn’t stop laughing when he imagined the scene. However, he also recalled a similar event in Zambia’s history.
In 1997, a High Court judge, the late Kabazo Chanda, controversially ordered the release of 53 suspects who had been detained for several years without appearing in court. Chanda’s decision, which was made on New Year’s Eve, was driven by frustration over the suspects’ prolonged detention, some of them having been held since 1992. The judge famously declared, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” a statement that resonated with many people at the time.
Despite the humor some find in the current situation, others have criticized Phiri’s actions as a serious breach of duty and responsibility. Law enforcement officers are entrusted with upholding the law and ensuring that those who have committed crimes face the justice they deserve. By releasing the suspects in such an unprofessional and unprovoked manner, Phiri has put the safety of the public at risk, as many of the escaped detainees were accused of serious offenses.
The Zambian public, particularly those who live in the capital, Lusaka, are now left questioning how such an incident could occur in the first place. With police officers in charge of maintaining order and security, many are concerned that an officer’s drunkenness could jeopardize the safety of their community. Furthermore, the escape of the detainees may undermine the confidence the public has in the country’s police force, especially when it comes to handling suspects and ensuring that the criminal justice system functions effectively.
The Zambian police have promised swift action to locate and recapture the 13 escapees. They are also investigating whether Phiri acted alone or if there were any accomplices involved in the incident. The police force has emphasized that while the situation is unusual, it will not deter their commitment to maintaining law and order across the country.
As this case continues to develop, it highlights the need for greater accountability and professionalism within Zambia’s police force, ensuring that law enforcement officers uphold their duties without compromising public safety. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of justice, not only in the courts but also in how police officers and other public servants carry out their responsibilities.
Zambian authorities have yet to provide an official statement on whether Phiri will face disciplinary action for his actions. In the meantime, citizens eagerly await the capture of the escaped detainees and the resolution of this bizarre and troubling situation.
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