On New Year’s Eve, an inebriated Zambian officer freed 13 detainees from custody, pushing them to start the new year as free people. This was a strange and startling development. Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, who is now being held, is charged with stealing the cell keys from the Leonard Cheelo Police Station in Lusaka and then going missing.
In what way did the officer grant freedom while intoxicated?
The police claim that Detective Phiri, the inebriated cop, took the keys from Constable Serah Banda while “in a state of intoxication.” “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,” according to an official.
Thirteen of the fifteen detainees detained at the station followed the inebriated officer’s instructions and made their getaway. Those suspected of violent offenses such as assault, robbery, and burglary were among the inmates.
The representative further stated, “The officer left the scene after the incident.” Now, a manhunt is in progress to find Detective Phiri and the fugitives.
What Effects Does This Incident Have on the Law?
Both the public and law enforcement are outraged and concerned about the suspects’ release. Discussions over responsibility and the possibility that individual misconduct could compromise justice have been rekindled by the intoxicated officer’s actions. Regarding the accusations, Mr. Phiri has not yet responded.
Is This Incident Reminiscent of a 1997 Incident?
The episode reminded me of something that happened more than 20 years ago. A lawyer and former government official responded to the issue by saying, “I keep chuckling each time I visualize the scenario—comical! However, I later recalled a comparable situation that occurred in 1997.
That time, a contentious High Court judge made news when he ordered the release of 53 defendants, some of whom the police considered dangerous. As early as 1992, these people had been held without charge or trial.
Known for his audacious decisions, the judge famously said, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” voicing his annoyance at the extended imprisonment without court appearances.
What Are the Outcomes and Takeaways for the Public?
Reactions to the similarities between the two occurrences have been conflicted; some people find fun in the ridiculousness of the circumstance, while others are worried about the potential consequences for public safety. Stricter control and steps to prevent such instances have been demanded by critics.
The incident serves as a reminder of the value of honesty and sobririety in the fight for justice as Zambian officials attempt to capture the rogue officer and the fleeing suspects.
