Former First Lady Esther Lungu Released from Custody Amidst High-Stakes Standoff

Former First Lady Esther Lungu has regained her freedom from police custody, thanks to the unwavering determination of former President Edgar Lungu, who made a resolute stand at the police station in Lusaka's Ibex residential area. Reports even suggest that the former President went so far as to enter the holding cells where his detained wife was held. The situation took a dramatic turn when a considerable number of Patriotic Front (PF) cadres and opposition political leaders began converging on the police station.

On 6th September yesternight at approximately 21:00 hours local time, Mrs. Lungu was eventually released.

This development unfolded against the backdrop of serious charges brought against Mrs. Lungu, including allegations of motor vehicle theft, which have sparked widespread attention and raised numerous questions about the circumstances and potential implications of these charges.

While Mrs. Lungu's release marks a significant twist in the ongoing saga, it's crucial to note that investigations into the charges against her and her co-accused are expected to persist. The final verdict on these allegations will ultimately be determined through legal proceedings. The former First Lady found herself officially charged and arrested by the police on multiple counts, specifically theft of a motor vehicle. In this case, she faces three charges of motor vehicle theft, along with four other individuals.

The co-accused individuals in this case include James Phiri (49 years old), Lee Chisulo (31 years old), Kapambwe Lungu (42 years old), and Catherine Banda (30 years old), all of whom are residents of Lusaka.

Aside from the motor vehicle theft charges, the group also faces a single count of theft of a Certificate of Title for a property located in Lusaka's Libala South. Furthermore, Mrs. Lungu has been charged with the offense of possessing property believed to be the proceeds of a crime.