Zambia arrests police officer who released detainees to celebrate New Year

A police officer in Zambia has been arrested following allegations that he released over a dozen prisoners from a local detention facility to allow them to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

The 13 suspects had been in detention near Kanyama, in the country’s south, facing charges including assault, affray, and theft.

Detective Inspector Titus Phiri forcefully seized cell keys on Tuesday morning whilst in a state of intoxication, Zambia’s Police Service said in a press release on Wednesday, January 1.

Sources indicate that the officer had been drinking alcohol prior to the incident and, in a misguided attempt to allow the inmates to celebrate the holiday, took the drastic step of releasing them.

The Zambian Police Service swiftly responded to the allegations, with a spokesperson confirming the arrest of the officer and promising a full investigation into the matter.

“This action is a clear violation of protocol and the law,” the spokesperson stated. “We are committed to ensuring that all police officers uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability. The officer in question will face disciplinary action and legal consequences.”

A manhunt was launched for the 13 detainees according to the police statement and the prisoners who were released have since been returned to custody, though some have expressed their confusion over the bizarre situation. One unnamed inmate was quoted as saying,

“We were told to enjoy the celebration, but we didn’t expect to be let out for the whole night.”

This unusual occurrence has raised concerns about security protocols within Zambia’s correctional facilities, with many questioning how such an incident could have been allowed to happen.

Critics are calling for a review of the screening process for officers and better safeguards to prevent similar events in the future.

While the officer’s actions were likely fueled by alcohol, the case has sparked wider discussions about accountability, the misuse of power, and the potential risks of intoxication among law enforcement personnel.

The Zambian government has yet to release further details on the officer’s legal proceedings, but the public is keen to see justice served in light of this unusual breach of protocol.

The case is expected to remain in the spotlight as Zambia continues to address issues related to law enforcement conduct and prison management with calls for greater reforms in the country’s justice system.