A Zambian police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, is under investigation and faces potential arrest and disciplinary action after allegedly releasing 13 detainees from custody on New Year’s Eve.
The incident occurred at Leonard Cheelo Police Station in Lusaka, where Phiri, reportedly “in a state of intoxication,” seized the cell keys from Constable Serah Banda.
According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Phiri proceeded to unlock the male and female cells, instructing the detainees to leave and “cross over into the new year.”
The detainees, who were being held on serious charges such as assault, robbery, and burglary, are now on the run. A manhunt has been launched to apprehend the fugitives. Of the 15 detainees in custody at the time, 13 escaped, while Detective Phiri fled the scene after the incident.
The event has triggered widespread reactions across Zambia. Former presidential spokesperson and lawyer Dickson Jere weighed in on Facebook, describing the situation as “comical.”
He also recalled a similar incident in 1997 when the late Judge Kabazo Chanda ordered the release of 53 detainees, citing their prolonged detention without trial as unjust.
Authorities have assured the public that they are taking the matter seriously. Investigations are underway to locate the escaped suspects and ensure that Detective Phiri is held accountable for his actions.
