A police officer in Zambia has been apprehended for allegedly enabling the escape of more than a dozen prisoners so they could ring in the New Year outside of confinement. Detective Inspector Titus Phiri is said to have “forcibly seized cell keys” while reportedly intoxicated on Tuesday morning, according to Zambia’s Police Service statement released on Wednesday.
Following the incident, Phiri purportedly unlocked both the male and female cells and directed the detainees to depart, informing them they were at liberty to step into the New Year, as indicated in the police communication. The authorities have initiated a search for the 13 individuals who are still at large, some of whom were facing accusations related to assault and theft, among other offenses.
“The Zambia Police Service is unwavering in its dedication to upholding the principles of law and order, pledging to take decisive measures against any personnel discovered to be misusing their power or acting in violation of regulations,” the statement affirmed.
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