Fourteen inmates escaped from Nchelenge police station, leaving a lone officer unconscious in a pool of blood, authorities said. The incident occurred roughly 965 kilometers north of Lusaka, the capital, according to Zambia police service deputy spokesman Godfrey Chilabi.
Chilabi said the cell door was found wide open, and the inmates in lawful custody had vanished without a trace. Three motorcycles stored as evidence at the station were also stolen during the daring escape, he added.
Sergeant Frank Phiri, the officer on duty, was rushed to a local hospital with severe head injuries. Despite medical efforts, Phiri succumbed to his injuries, and his body is set for a postmortem examination.
Authorities confirmed that three of the 14 escaped inmates have been recaptured and are currently under interrogation. A manhunt is ongoing for the remaining 11 fugitives, with police warning they are considered dangerous and armed.
Residents in the northern district are urged to report any suspicious activity as the search intensifies across the region. The violent escape has sparked outrage and concern about security protocols within Zambia’s law enforcement facilities.
Police officials vowed to strengthen oversight and prevent similar incidents, stressing that justice will be pursued for the fallen officer. This event marks one of the most significant prison breaks in the region, highlighting persistent challenges in custodial management.