LUSAKA, Zambia – Zambian authorities have arrested former President Edgar Lungu’s son, Dalitso Lungu, and his daughter-in-law, Matilda, in connection with money laundering charges and possession of property suspected to be the proceeds of crime, valued at over $5 million.
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga announced the arrest of the couple on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, who also serve as directors of Saloid Traders Limited.
Hamoonga revealed that the duo is accused of owning 69 motor vehicles and other properties allegedly acquired through illicit means.
In an official statement, the police detailed, “Police have arrested and charged Dalitso, aged 36, and Matilda Likando Milinga, aged 36, for the offence of possession of properties suspected to be proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 71 of the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act of 2010.”
Hamoonga added, “Dalitso Lungu has also been arrested and charged for the offence of money laundering. The duo has since been released from police custody and will appear in court soon.”
The arrest follows a week after Zambian authorities seized approximately 20 properties linked to Dalitso, former President Lungu’s wife, Esther, and daughter Tasila.
However, the Patriotic Front Party, which is associated with former President Edgar Lungu, has branded the arrests as a continued government persecution campaign against the Lungu family.
Brian Mundubile, legal counsel for Dalitso and his wife, confirmed the arrests and the charges leveled against them.
Mundubile affirmed that his clients had been granted bail and were awaiting a court appearance.
The lawyer called for respect and dignity to be accorded to the Lungus, given their status as members of a former first family.
The incident underscores the broader issue of alleged corruption and misappropriation of public funds that has plagued political landscapes across Africa.
It raises questions regarding the accountability and transparency of political leaders and their families in managing national resources.
As the case proceeds, Zambians and the international community will closely monitor the developments to ascertain if justice is served and the rule of law upheld.
