A Zambian police officer, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, has released 13 detainees to commemorate the New Year, prompting a manhunt for the escaped individuals.
According to reports, Inspector Titus Phiri allegedly took cell keys from a fellow officer at the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka on New Year’s Eve, freeing those held for various offenses, including assault, robbery, and burglary.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga provided details on the incident, stating, “In a state of intoxication, [Phiri] forcibly seized cell keys, unlocked both the male and female cells, and instructed the suspects to leave, declaring they were free to cross into the new year.”
Authorities are currently investigating the incident.
