By : Lloyd Mahachi 

A shocking incident has unfolded in Zambia, where a drunken police officer released 13 suspects from custody on New Year’s Eve. This incident has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the officer’s actions and the potential consequences for the community.

The officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, was arrested after freeing the detainees from Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka. He then fled the scene, leaving behind a trail of confusion and concern. The 13 suspects, accused of crimes such as assault, robbery, and burglary, are currently on the run.

A manhunt has been launched to apprehend the escaped suspects, and the police are working to ensure that justice is served. According to Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Mr. Phiri, “in a state of intoxication, forcibly seized cell keys” from Constable Serah Banda. This allowed him to unlock both the male and female cells and instruct the suspects to leave.

The incident has sparked a mixture of emotions, with some finding it amusing and others expressing concern. Former presidential spokesperson and lawyer Dickson Jere reacted to the incident on Facebook, saying, “I keep laughing each time I picture the scenario – comical!” However, the situation is far from amusing, as the release of the suspects has put the community in danger.

This incident is not the first of its kind in Zambia. In 1997, the late High Court Judge Kabazo Chanda ordered the release of 53 suspects, some of whom were deemed dangerous by the police, on New Year’s Eve. Judge Chanda was motivated by the principle that “justice delayed, is justice denied,” as the suspects had been arrested as far back as 1992 but had not yet appeared in court.

The Zambia Police Service has launched an investigation into the incident, and Mr. Phiri is likely to face disciplinary action. The service has assured the public that they are working to ensure that justice is served and that the community is protected. As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that this incident will have significant consequences for the officer and the community.

The police are taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes reviewing their protocols and procedures to ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions. The community is also being urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

In the meantime, the search for the escaped suspects continues. The police are working around the clock to apprehend the suspects and bring them to justice. The community is being assured that everything is being done to ensure their safety and security.

The incident has also raised questions about the accountability of law enforcement officials. There are calls for greater transparency and accountability within the police service, to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. As the investigation continues, it is clear that this incident will have far-reaching consequences for the police and the community.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi