Zambian Policeman Arrested for New Year’s Eve Jailbreak

Detective inspector Titus Phiri of Zambia faces arrest after liberating 13 detainees on New Year's Eve, igniting a police investigation and bringing attention to past judicial anomalies.

In an unusual event, a Zambian police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, was arrested for freeing 13 suspects from custody as a misguided celebration for the New Year. The incident took place at Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka on New Year's Eve, where Phiri, allegedly intoxicated, confiscated cell keys from Constable Serah Banda and unlocked both male and female cells, allowing detainees accused of serious crimes such as assault, robbery, and burglary to escape.

According to police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Phiri encouraged the suspects to leave, stating they were "free to cross over into the new year." Out of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 chose freedom, and following the incident, Phiri fled the scene. A manhunt is currently underway to recapture the escaped detainees.

Phiri has not commented on the allegations, which have drawn significant public attention. Social media has lit up with reactions, including a humorous post from former presidential spokesperson Dickson Jere, who remarked on the comical nature of the incident while recalling a similar episode from 1997, when a controversial High Court judge ordered the release of 53 suspects, some deemed dangerous, due to delays in their court appearances.

This recent event raises questions about police conduct and justice in Zambia, echoing past judicial criticisms while reminding citizens of the complexity of their justice system.