Police launch manhunt after officer murdered, 14 suspects escape in Nchelenge

Police in Luapula Province have launched investigations into a suspected case of murder involving Sergeant Frank Phiri, a police officer who was allegedly killed while on duty, and the escape of 14 suspects from police custody.

The incident occurred between 04:00 and 05:00 hours on October 25, 2025, at Nchelenge Police Station in Nchelenge District.

Police Deputy Public Relations Officer, Godfrey Chilabi, confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Sergeant Phiri, who was on duty at the time, was found unconscious and lying in a pool of blood by a fellow officer returning from an operational beat.

He was rushed to St. Paul’s Mission Hospital, where he later succumbed to head injuries.

“Upon inspection, the cell door was found open, and fourteen (14) suspects who were in lawful custody had escaped,” Chilabi said.

He added that three motorcycles kept as exhibits were also stolen during the incident.

“A manhunt has since been launched for the escaped suspects. The Luapula Province Police Command has reinforced manpower and intensified patrols across Nchelenge District,” he said.

Chilabi revealed that three of the escaped suspects had since been recaptured, while 11 remain at large.

The recaptured suspects include Honest Chuntu (Theft), Samson Katandala (Assault – OABH), and Sydney Nnamwango (Conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace).

Those still on the run are Bernard Musonda (Conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace), Daniel Chisala (Murder), Francis Chama (Theft), Francis Mwengelo (Housebreaking and Theft), Geoffrey Kashimya (Assault on a Child), Jackson Chifulo (Defilement of a Child), Lazarous Lubuta (Use of Insulting Language), Patrick Kabulo (Murder), Stephen Bupe (Theft of a Motorbike), William Kabaso (Theft by Servant), and William Kazembe (Use of Insulting Language).

“The body of Sergeant Frank Phiri is currently lying at St. Paul’s Mission Hospital Mortuary, awaiting postmortem examination,” Chilabi said.

He added that the Zambia Police Service mourns with the family, friends, and colleagues of Sergeant Phiri and extends its deepest condolences on the tragic loss.

Chilabi further appealed to members of the public with information on the whereabouts of the remaining suspects to come forward and assist with investigations.

“Members of the public will be updated on further findings once investigations and related forensic analyses are concluded,” he said.

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