Thirteen Inmates Escape from Zambian Jail Due to Officer’s Intoxication
On New Year’s Eve, a drunken detective in Zambia mistakenly unlocked prison cells, allowing thirteen inmates to escape. The police are now searching for the fugitives, who face serious charges. The officer involved was arrested shortly after the incident, and authorities urge the public to assist in locating the escapees.
On New Year’s Eve in Zambia, thirteen inmates escaped from jail after a drunken detective mistakenly unlocked their cells, believing he had given them permission to leave. Reports indicate that the intoxicated officer forcefully took the keys from Constable Serah Banda and, upon unlocking both male and female cells, instructed the prisoners to exit, claiming they were free to welcome the New Year outside. Following this incident, only two of the fifteen detainees chose to remain, while the remaining thirteen fled into freedom, leaving the police concerned about public safety due to the seriousness of the charges faced by the escapees.
The police have launched an extensive manhunt to recapture the fugitives, who include individuals charged with serious offenses such as assault, burglary, and theft. A police spokesman, Rae Hamoonga, emphasized the potential risks associated with allowing these individuals to remain at large, which could pose a threat to community safety. Although the intoxicated detective fled the scene, he was apprehended shortly afterwards, and subsequent efforts to locate the escapees have intensified. Authorities are urging the public to assist in reporting any suspicious activities or information that could lead to the recapture of the fugitives.
This incident highlights a significant failure in law enforcement procedures, particularly regarding the handling of prisoners and the responsibility of officers on duty, especially in regards to sobriety. The situation raises questions about the internal controls and protocols within Zambian police facilities that can prevent such lapses. The potential danger posed by the escapees, who were already incarcerated for serious charges, is a pressing concern for both law enforcement and community members alike.
The escape of thirteen inmates from a Zambian jail due to the actions of a drunken detective underscores the critical need for stringent law enforcement protocols and oversight. The police remain determined to recapture the fugitives, while public cooperation is deemed essential for ensuring community safety. This incident serves as an urgent reminder of the consequences that can arise from neglecting operational vigilance within the police force.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
