Drunk police officer opened cells and told 15 inmates they were free to go, then 13 escaped

In an unusual New Year’s Eve incident in Zambia, 13 suspected criminals escaped custody after an intoxicated detective unlocked jail cells and told them they were free to go. The bizarre event occurred on the morning of December 31, according to a statement from the police.

The detective, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, forcibly took the keys from Constable Serah Banda before opening both male and female cells. Witnesses say the officer declared, “You are free to cross over into the New Year,” releasing inmates who faced charges ranging from assault to theft and burglary.

Out of the 15 detainees in custody at the time, 13 fled the facility. Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed on Friday that the suspects are still at large. “Many of the suspects face charges for serious crimes, including assault, theft, and burglary. Allowing them to remain at large may pose a significant risk to public safety,” Hamoonga said.

The intoxicated detective fled the scene after the incident but was apprehended soon afterward. Authorities have not disclosed details about the officer’s motives, but they confirmed that efforts to locate and apprehend the escapees have been intensified.

In a public statement, the Zambia Police Service called on citizens to assist in tracking down the fugitives. “We urge members of the public with any information that may assist in locating the suspects to report to the nearest police station,” the statement read.

Despite these efforts, no updates on the whereabouts of the escaped inmates have been provided as of Monday.

The incident has raised questions about security measures and the accountability of officers in charge of detainees.

Whispers From The Neighbourhood

The actions of the Zambian detective, described as both irresponsible and dangerous, have triggered outrage. Many critics argue that such behavior is not only unprofessional but also poses a significant risk to public safety.

By unlocking the cells and freeing individuals accused of serious crimes, the officer failed to uphold the basic responsibilities of law enforcement, ultimately jeopardizing the safety of the community.

The decision to act while intoxicated has been particularly condemned. Critics argue that officers entrusted with public safety must maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.

As one commentator put it, “If officers cannot be trusted to remain sober while on duty, how can they be trusted to make decisions that affect lives and communities?”

The timing of the release, on New Year’s Eve, has also sparked anger. Critics point out that this was not merely a lapse in judgment but a blatant disregard for the law, motivated by personal irresponsibility.

“It’s as though the officer treated a detention facility like a party, with no regard for the consequences,” remarked a public safety advocate.

Moreover, the incident highlights systemic weaknesses in the Zambian justice system. Many have criticized the lack of stringent controls, which allowed a single officer to commandeer the keys and open multiple cells without intervention. “How does one officer, even while intoxicated, have such unchecked power?” questioned a concerned citizen.

Public backlash has also focused on the lack of immediate accountability and transparency. Critics argue that the delay in recapturing the escapees reflects poorly on law enforcement’s efficiency. “The fact that these suspects are still at large days after the incident suggests a failure in crisis response,” noted a legal expert.

Others have pointed out the broader implications of the escape. With 13 suspects now on the loose, many fear that communities will face heightened risks of crime. Victims of the crimes allegedly committed by the escapees are particularly outraged, as the release undermines justice and prolongs their suffering.

While the detective’s arrest is seen as a step toward accountability, many insist that this is insufficient. Calls for a thorough investigation into the incident and stricter policies to prevent similar occurrences in the future have grown louder.

As one critic summarized, “This is not just about one officer’s drunken mistake—it’s about a system that allowed it to happen.”