A Zambian detective inspector, in a drunken state, released 13 suspects from custody before fleeing the scene. The released individuals face charges including robbery and assault. The incident has drawn comparisons to a similar event in 1997, highlighting ongoing issues within the Zambian justice system.
Drunken Zambian Policeman Releases 13 Detained Suspects for New Year Celebration
Drunken Zambian Policeman Releases 13 Detained Suspects for New Year Celebration
On New Year's Eve, a Zambian policeman, under the influence of alcohol, freed 13 detainees from police custody to allow them to celebrate the new year, igniting a manhunt.
The incident unfolded when Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, intoxicated on New Year's Eve, reportedly seized keys from a constable at the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka. He then unlocked both male and female cells, instructing the suspects they were free to celebrate the transition into the new year. Of the 15 individuals held, 13 managed to escape, prompting a swift police response to locate them.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the chaotic event, indicating that Phiri's actions represent a significant breach of protocol. He stated, "In a state of intoxication, [Phiri] forcibly seized cell keys," further emphasizing that the suspects, now on the run, face serious charges, including assault, robbery, and burglary.
The police are actively working to recapture the escaped detainees. Phiri himself has not yet offered any comment on the serious allegations against him. Social media users have reacted with a mix of concern and humor regarding the bizarre situation.
Dickson Jere, a former presidential spokesperson, commented on the incident, describing it as "comical" but then drawing parallels to an event in 1997. On that occasion, Judge Kabazo Chanda controversially ordered the release of 53 suspects who had been in custody for an extensive period without trial, noting, "Justice delayed, is justice denied."
This recent event has reignited discussions about the Zambian justice system and how such incidents can undermine public trust. The escape of individuals accused of violent crimes raises concerns about public safety, while also highlighting systemic issues that need to be addressed within law enforcement and the judiciary. Such occurrences may warrant investigations into the conditions of detention and the processes surrounding arrest and trial in Zambia.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the chaotic event, indicating that Phiri's actions represent a significant breach of protocol. He stated, "In a state of intoxication, [Phiri] forcibly seized cell keys," further emphasizing that the suspects, now on the run, face serious charges, including assault, robbery, and burglary.
The police are actively working to recapture the escaped detainees. Phiri himself has not yet offered any comment on the serious allegations against him. Social media users have reacted with a mix of concern and humor regarding the bizarre situation.
Dickson Jere, a former presidential spokesperson, commented on the incident, describing it as "comical" but then drawing parallels to an event in 1997. On that occasion, Judge Kabazo Chanda controversially ordered the release of 53 suspects who had been in custody for an extensive period without trial, noting, "Justice delayed, is justice denied."
This recent event has reignited discussions about the Zambian justice system and how such incidents can undermine public trust. The escape of individuals accused of violent crimes raises concerns about public safety, while also highlighting systemic issues that need to be addressed within law enforcement and the judiciary. Such occurrences may warrant investigations into the conditions of detention and the processes surrounding arrest and trial in Zambia.
