Zambian security forces have detained 11 people, among them senior opposition figures, following a raid in Lusaka linked to an alleged armed insurrection plot. The arrests occurred in the aftermath of Zambia's recent presidential and parliamentary elections.
The government stated that the suspects had been monitored for several years and were allegedly involved in military schemes involving foreign nationals and unauthorized training camps. Authorities reported confiscating high-grade military weapons, ammunition, and other materials intended for the planned insurrection.
Among those arrested is George Chisanga, spokesperson for opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who was also present during the raid. Other detainees include Patrick Mwansa, husband to Tasila Lungu, daughter of former President Edgar Lungu, and senior members of various political parties.
Brian Mundubile, who leads the opposition and has claimed victory in the election, described the raid as an attempt on his life and alleged that colleagues were shot during the operation. However, government officials countered that shots were fired from the premises at law enforcement officers, prompting an exchange of gunfire.
The Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, confirmed that those arrested face multiple criminal charges and are held at different police stations in Lusaka. He emphasized the seriousness of the threat posed to national security and assured that detainees would have access to legal counsel and family visits.
The arrests have intensified political tensions as votes continue to be tallied, with incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema currently leading in preliminary results. Opposition parties and civil society groups have criticized the government for increased repression during the election period, including restrictions on campaigning and detentions, allegations the government denies.
Additionally, Mundubile reported being interrogated by army officers and claimed mistreatment while in custody, accusations that authorities have refuted. He also accused Tanzania of meddling in the election, a charge strongly denied by the Tanzanian government.
The Zambia Electoral Commission briefly suspended vote counting due to violence and ballot theft but resumed after security was restored. The election is widely viewed as a critical test of President Hichilema's administration amid ongoing economic challenges.
