Zambian ex-first lady arrested on fraud charges

Esther Lungu, Zambia's former First Lady, and her daughter, Chiyeso Katete, were arrested in Lusaka for allegedly possessing properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Alongside another relative, Charles Phiri, they were detained by the state anti-drug agency, which claimed Lungu couldn't explain her acquisition of a $30,000 estate.

Former President Edgar Lungu, accusing the government of political victimization, vowed to challenge the charges.

The arrests are part of President Hakainde Hichilema’s anti-corruption campaign targeting ex-government officials.

Critics argue the campaign is politically driven.