Equatorial Guinea is facing a major scandal following the arrest of Baltasar Engonga, Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), on allegations of recording over 400 explicit videos involving the wives of prominent public figures.
The scandal came to light during a separate fraud investigation involving Engonga, aged 54, where authorities uncovered a collection of explicit CDs during searches of his home and office. The recordings reportedly included spouses of high-ranking officials, such as the wife of the Director General of Police, as well as close family members of senior government figures, including the sister of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and wives of several ministers.
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These videos, some reportedly filmed in Engonga’s office with the national flag visible in the background, are said to have been consensual. However, their leak online has triggered public outrage and drawn intense scrutiny from local media, with Ahora EG calling the scandal a “flagrant violation” of ethical standards.
Engonga, known by the nickname “Bello,” now finds himself at the center of this national controversy. Equatorial Guinea’s Attorney General Nzang Nguema clarified that consensual relationships without coercion do not violate current laws, but he expressed concern over public health risks and encouraged an environment where individuals feel safe to report non-consensual encounters or abuse.
The government has acted swiftly in response to the scandal, suspending officials involved in sexual conduct within ministry offices and reinforcing a “zero tolerance” policy for behavior that undermines public trust. Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue condemned Engonga’s actions in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), underscoring the importance of “ethics and respect” in public service.
The incident has spurred the government’s commitment to upholding professionalism and integrity within its institutions, with officials emphasizing their dedication to restoring public confidence and fostering a respectful workplace culture.
BY: MOSES DESIRE KOUYO
