The Zambian police have arrested a son of former President Edgar Lungu and his daughter-in-law on suspicion of money laundering and unlawful possession of property.

According to a report published on Tuesday by Voice of America (VOA), the ex-president’s son is suspected of stealing more than $5 million in criminal proceeds.

Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga told VOA that Dalitso Lungu and his wife, Matildah Lungu, were arrested in their capacity as directors of Saloid Traders Limited.

He said they were accused of owning 69 vehicles and other properties believed to have been proceeds of crime.

“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,” said Mr Hamoonga while listing out the charges. 

He added, “Dalitso Lungu has also been arrested and charged with the offence of money laundering. The duo has since been released from police custody and will appear in court soon.” 

The Patriotic Front Party reportedly described the action as continued persecution of Mr Lungu’s family by the government.