Former First Lady Esther Lungu arrested

By Sharon Siame

Former First Lady ESTHER LUNGU has been arrested and charged for being in possession of properties suspected to be reasonably obtained through proceeds of crime.

Speaking to journalists on phone, lawyer representing Mrs. LUNGU, CHARLES CHANGANO said the former First lady has been arrested and charged for two offences.

Mr. CHANGANO said the first charge is for possession of property suspected to be reasonably obtained through proceeds of crime.

He explained that this is in regard to property in Ibex Hill which has been valued at 4,880,000 Kwacha.

Mr. CHANGANO said Mrs. LUNGU has denied the charge and that the second charge is money laundering for hiring a third party.

He said on the same property, Mrs. LUNGU is alleged to have hired a third party to enter into a lease agreement where she indirectly paid about 45,000 Kwacha per month.

This is said to have occurred between January 1st, 2016 and December 31st, 2023.

Mrs. LUNGU has denied both charges and has been released on an extended bond.

The former first lady was earlier interviewed by DEC regarding the same property on 30th July, 2024 but was not charged and was warned and cautioned.