A Zambian police officer has been arrested after allegedly releasing 13 prisoners from custody on New Year’s Eve while intoxicated, authorities said Wednesday.
Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, stationed near Kanyama in the southern region of Zambia, reportedly “forcibly seized cell keys” and unlocked both male and female detention cells, according to a statement from Zambia’s Police Service.
Phiri allegedly told the detainees, who were held on charges including assault, affray, and theft, that they were “free to cross over into the New Year,” the statement said. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, January 1.
Police have launched a manhunt for the 13 prisoners who remain at large. The Zambia Police Service emphasized its commitment to enforcing the law and vowed to take decisive action against any officers found abusing their authority.
“The Zambia Police Service reiterates its commitment to upholding law and order and assures the public that decisive action will be taken against any officer found to be abusing their authority or acting contrary to the law,” the statement added.
Authorities are urging the public to report any sightings of the escaped prisoners.
