Police re-arrest three escapees aided by officer on New Year’s eve

Three suspects who escaped lawful custody on December 31, 2024, have been re-arrested by Lusaka police, following their initial release facilitated by Detective Inspector, Titus Phiri, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 hours, when Phiri allegedly took the keys from Constable Serah Banda and unlocked both the male and female cells, allowing the suspects to escape.

Phiri reportedly told them they were free to “cross into the New Year.”

Police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, confirmed the re-arrest of Memory Mpukuta (22), Kelvin Mwape (47), and Simon Phiri (41) on January 13, 2025, at 17:00 hours.

The arrests were made with support from the Kanyama Police Station and local community members.

Mpukuta, from Makeni Villa, was facing charges of theft, while Mwape and Phiri, both from Banda Masauko, were charged with malicious damage to property and possession of psychotropic substances, respectively.

The trio are now detained at Kanyama Police Station, where they await further legal action.

Hamoonga also stated that efforts to locate the remaining ten escapees were ongoing, with a manhunt still active.

He appealed to the public to provide any information that may assist in capturing the fugitives.

The police spokesperson commended the local community for their role in the re-arrests and urged citizens to remain vigilant.

Hamoonga reassured the public of the police’s commitment to law enforcement and the accountability of all individuals, including those within the ranks of the police force.

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