Equatorial Guinea's Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), Baltasar Engonga, has been arrested following allegations of recording over 400 sextapes involving the wives of prominent figures across the country.
The scandal, which erupted during an ongoing fraud investigation against Engonga, has sent shockwaves through the nation, stirring intense media scrutiny and governmental response.
The 54-year-old economist was under investigation when officials conducted unannounced searches of his home and office, reportedly finding a collection of CDs that revealed intimate footage involving Engonga and several married women.
According to sources, these videos include encounters with women connected to high-ranking individuals, including Engonga's own relatives, as well as figures within the government and security services.
The reported individuals involved include the sister of Equatorial Guinea’s President, the wife of the Director General of Police, and the spouses of nearly 20 government ministers.
The discovery of these recordings within Engonga’s office and the subsequent leaks have sparked a social media frenzy, leading to widespread public outcry.
According to Ahora EG, a local media outlet, the scandal is unprecedented in Equatorial Guinea’s recent history. Engonga, known locally by the nickname "Bello," is reported to have engaged in these relations consensually, filming them in various settings including his work office, occasionally with national symbols such as the flag visible in the background.
"The most striking thing," Ahora EG reported, "is that some scenes took place in his work office, including moments in which he is seen sleeping with a woman next to the National Flag."
The report stated that the government views the scandal as deeply damaging to the nation’s image, prompting the executive branch to issue statements condemning such behavior among public officials.
Equatorial Guinea’s Attorney General, Nzang Nguema, commented on the legal implications of the scandal, highlighting that the consensual nature of the encounters means they do not constitute criminal acts in the absence of coercion or violence.
However, Nguema stressed the importance of individuals reporting cases of sexual misconduct or assault, emphasizing that the law can only protect victims if they come forward.
He further cautioned about the public health risks these actions may pose, stating, “The possibility of a contagious disease being spread through these sexual interactions makes the situation even more critical.”
In response to the scandal, the government has announced immediate disciplinary measures, suspending officials involved in sexual conduct within ministry offices.
This response reflects the administration's commitment to upholding a "zero tolerance" policy for behavior that undermines the integrity of the public sector.
Vice President Nguema Mangue issued a statement reinforcing this stance, writing on social media platform X, “Ethics and respect are fundamental in our Administration. Irresponsible attitudes that put citizen trust at risk will not be allowed.”
The unfolding scandal underscores Equatorial Guinea’s efforts to reinforce ethical standards within its public administration, amid a case that has captivated both the nation and the broader international community.
