A Zambian detective who was under the influence of alcohol released a total of 13 detained suspects out of custody so that they could go and celebrate and enjoy the new year.
This was confirmed by the country’s officials who identified the officer as Detective Inspector Titus Phiri. Phiri was subsequently arrested for setting free the suspects who were yet to appear in court.
The incident happened at a Police Station based in Lusaka. After releasing the suspects from the Leonard Cheelo Police Station cells and ran away himself.
The suspects were yet to appear in court facing crimes which range from assault, burglary and robbery. There is an ongoing manhunt for them since they are currently on the run.
Police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga said that the drunk policeman forcibly seized cell keys from the on duty constable Serah Banda on the New Year’s Eve.
“Subsequently, detective inspector Phiri unlocked both the male and female cells and instructed the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the new year,” he said.
“Out of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 escaped. Following the incident, the officer fled the scene.”
,said Rae Hamoonga.
Mr Phiri has not yet commented on the allegations.
