SOUTHERN PROVINCE RECORDS SECOND PRISON ESCAPE IN FOUR DAYS: SIX SUSPECTS BREAK FREE FROM MBABALA POLICE POST
The Southern Province of Zambia has been rocked by another prison escape, marking the second such incident within just four days. In the latest development, six suspects managed to escape from the Mbabala Police Post late on December 29, 2024. The breakout occurred at approximately 23:50 hours after the suspects forcibly damaged the grill gate and exited through the main door.
This alarming incident follows a similar event in Sinazongwe District, where 16 suspects escaped custody under still unclear circumstances, raising serious concerns about the security protocols in detention facilities across the province.
Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka confirmed the incident, revealing that the escape was discovered shortly after midnight on December 30, 2024, during a routine inspection. Officer in Charge (OIC) Sergeant Chimwanja, accompanied by Criminal Investigations Officer (CIO) Constable Musipili, uncovered the breakout during their patrol.
The suspects are reported to have worked together to break the grill gate before making their way out through the police post’s main door. It remains unclear how the escapees managed to overcome the facility’s security measures, sparking concerns about lapses in oversight and preparedness.
The escaped suspects, whose charges range from theft to burglary, have been identified as follows:
- Sunday Halwindi (24): Charged with stock theft.
- Victor Mudenda (30): Charged with stock theft.
- Choolwe Kandimba (28): Found in possession of suspected stolen property.
- Lweendo Hamilandu (27): Found in possession of suspected stolen property.
- Kaunda Muleya (53): Charged with theft.
- Timothy Muungo (23): Charged with burglary and theft.
In response to the escape, a manhunt has been launched to recapture the suspects. However, as of the time of reporting, no arrests have been made. Law enforcement officials are urging members of the public with any information regarding the whereabouts of the escapees to come forward.
Commissioner Daka emphasized the importance of public cooperation in ensuring that the suspects are apprehended promptly. He assured the public that efforts are being intensified to address security concerns at police facilities to prevent future incidents.
This second escape within a short span has sparked widespread concern among the public and within law enforcement circles. The incident in Sinazongwe, where 16 suspects escaped, and now the Mbabala breakout highlight potential systemic issues in the management and security of detention facilities.
Experts and community leaders are calling for an immediate review of protocols at police posts and correctional facilities, particularly in the Southern Province. Recommendations include:
- Strengthening physical infrastructure, including reinforced grill gates and secure doors.
- Increasing the number of officers on duty during critical hours.
- Implementing advanced surveillance systems, such as CCTV cameras, at all facilities.
- Conducting regular security audits to identify and address potential weaknesses.
Residents in Mbabala and surrounding areas have expressed fear and frustration over the incidents. Many are concerned that suspects charged with crimes such as burglary and theft may pose a threat to their safety. Community members are also questioning the level of accountability within the police force and are calling for transparency in the ongoing investigations.
As law enforcement continues its manhunt for the escapees, the focus has shifted to long-term solutions to restore public confidence. The Southern Province Police Command is expected to release a detailed report on the factors leading to the escapes and the measures being taken to address them.
For now, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the emergency hotline.
