Zambia’s former First Lady, Esther Lungu, and her daughter, Chiyeso Katete, were arrested on Thursday in Lusaka over properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.
They were detained alongside a close relative, Charles Phiri, according to authorities.
The state’s anti-drug agency stated that Ms. Lungu could not provide a reasonable explanation for her acquisition of a $30,000 estate in the capital.
Former President Edgar Lungu, who has claimed his family is being victimized to block his political return ahead of the 2026 elections, vowed to challenge the charges in court.
Ms. Lungu, 66, is accused of fraudulently acquiring 15 double-storey flats in Lusaka’s Chongwe town between 2015 and 2023.
Her daughter faces charges related to acquiring another three flats estate and a high-cost house, among other properties.
The arrests are part of President Hakainde Hichilema’s anti-corruption campaign aimed at recovering resources allegedly looted during Mr. Lungu’s presidency.
Critics argue the campaign is politically motivated. All accused were released on bond after several hours of questioning and are expected to challenge the charges in court.
