A bizarre incident unfolded in Lusaka, Zambia, as a police officer reportedly intoxicated released 13 detainees from custody on New Year’s Eve, prompting a widespread manhunt for the escapees.

According to reports by the BBC, Inspector Titus Phiri allegedly confiscated the keys to the cells from Constable Serah Banda at the Leonard Cheelo police station.

The detainees were being held for offenses such as robbery, assault, and burglary. Out of the 15 detainees in custody, 13 managed to escape.

In a statement, police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga revealed, “In a state of intoxication, [Phiri] 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.

“Out of the 15 suspects in custody, 13 escaped. Following the incident, the officer fled the scene.

“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.”

Phiri himself absconded after the incident, and he has yet to respond to the accusations.

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