A Zambian police officer has been arrested after allegedly freeing over a dozen inmates to allow them to celebrate New Year’s Eve while intoxicated.
The 13 detainees, who were held near Kanyama in southern Zambia on charges such as assault, affray, and theft, were released by Detective Inspector Titus Phiri. According to Zambia’s Police Service, Phiri “forcibly seized the keys” to the cells on Tuesday morning while under the influence of alcohol.
Phiri then unlocked both male and female cells, instructing the inmates to leave and telling them they were free to ring in the New Year.
A manhunt is underway for the 13 prisoners still on the run, the police confirmed in a statement.
The Zambia Police Service emphasized its commitment to maintaining law and order, assuring the public that strict measures would be taken against any officer found abusing their power or acting unlawfully.
