Drunk Zambian cop arrested for freeing 13 inmates to 'celebrate New Year'

A Zambian police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, has been arrested for releasing 13 suspects from custody in Lusaka while intoxicated on New Year’s Eve, according to a statement by the police.

Africa Parrot correspondent gathered that the incident occurred at the Leonard Cheelo Police Station, where Phiri, under the influence of alcohol, reportedly took cell keys from Constable Serah Banda and set the suspects free.

“In a state of intoxication, he forcibly seized the cell keys and unlocked both the male and female cells, instructing the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the new year,” police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed.

Among the 15 suspects in custody at the time, 13 escaped. The freed individuals were facing charges of assault, robbery, and burglary, and are now on the run.

The intoxicated officer, Phiri, fled the scene after the escape but was later apprehended by authorities. The police have since launched a manhunt for the escaped suspects and are investigating the bizarre incident.

The case has sparked outrage and embarrassment, with police authorities emphasizing their commitment to restoring public trust. “This reckless and unlawful act will not go unpunished,” Hamoonga assured.