By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Authorities and the public in Zambia are in disbelief after a police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, was arrested for allowing 13 suspects to escape from custody to celebrate the New Year.
The unusual incident took place at the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka, where Inspector Phiri, allegedly inebriated, forcibly took the cell keys from his colleague, Constable Serah Banda, and released the suspects.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the situation to BBC News, revealing that Inspector Phiri told the suspects they were “free to cross over into the New Year.”
The detainees, facing serious charges including assault, robbery, and burglary, seized the chance to escape.
“In a state of intoxication, Detective Inspector Phiri seized the keys from Constable Serah Banda. He proceeded to unlock both male and female cells, instructing the suspects to leave,” Hamoonga added.
Of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 managed to flee, prompting police to intensify efforts to recapture them.
Following the incident, Inspector Phiri was arrested and now faces disciplinary action. This bizarre episode has ignited a mix of outrage and amusement on social media, with users reacting rapidly to the news.