Zambian police have arrested 11 people, including the son-in-law of former President Edgar Lungu and politicians from an opposition party, during an operation in the capital, the government said on Monday.

Patrick Mwansa, who is married to Lungu’s daughter Tasila, was among those detained during the operation in Lusaka.

The government also confirmed that Brian Mundubile, presidential candidate for the New Revolution Party (NRPUP), was allegedly found at the scene.

The statement did not specify whether Mundubile has been charged, arrested, or is being treated as a witness or person of interest.

Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa said those detained included people who had been under surveillance for several years.

Neither the NRPUP nor Lungu’s family has publicly commented on the arrests.

Kangwa said police found military-grade weapons and ammunition at the premises but did not say any were linked to Patrick Mwansa or Brian Mundubile.

"The operation resulted in the seizure of restricted, high-grade military weapons and the apprehension of suspected members of the militia and other persons found at the scene, while others fled and their whereabouts were unknown," Kangwa said.

Kangwa said those arrested had been charged and would be allowed access to their families and lawyers.