Thirteen suspects in police custody in Zambia got a lucky break after a drunken police officer freed them to go and celebrate New Year.
The policeman Titus Phiri arrested after he released the suspects from Leonard Cheelo police station in the capital, Lusaka.
BBC reports that the Phiri ran away after the incident that saw the detainees accused of assault, robbery, burglary, and other crimes released.
Police are pursuing the suspects, and a manhunt to find them has been launched.
RaeHamoonga, the Zambia police spokesperson, said that Phiri, “in a state of intoxication, forcibly seized cell keys” from constable Serah Banda on New Year’s Eve.
“Subsequently, detective inspector Phiri unlocked both the male and female cells and instructed the suspects to leave, stating they were free to cross over into the new year,” he said.
“Out of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 escaped. Following the incident, the officer fled the scene.”
The incident has elicited mixed reactions from netizens, with the majority finding it amusing.
Sizzo: “This one deserves a medal.”
Alchemist: He developed a human heart after taking some pints of beer.
Must Go: “He can seek asylum in Kenya. We need such legends.”
Mutinda Mutiso: This is too funny and weird at the same time.
Mavundla: “Was he really drunk? Seems like being bribed to get drunk and free specific prisoners.”
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Martin T: Titus said, ‘If we’re starting a new year, let’s all start afresh!’ This is the kind of community spirit that nobody asked for.
Wejjo Ivan: “One of the few stories I have heard of the usefulness of alcohol.”
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