Equatorial Guinea’s Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency, Baltasar Engonga, has been arrested after authorities found over 400 sextapes allegedly involving the wives and sisters of prominent figures in the country.
The shocking discovery came during a fraud investigation into Engonga, a 54-year-old economist.
Officials who searched his home and office uncovered numerous CDs containing videos that reportedly showed him in intimate encounters with several married women.
Some of the individuals involved include the wife of the Police Chief, a cousin, the President’s sister, and wives of around 20 government ministers.
Local media outlet Ahora EG reported that Engonga, known by the nickname “Bello,” allegedly filmed these private moments with the consent of the women involved. Some scenes reportedly took place in his office, even with the national flag in the background, sparking public outrage.
In response, Equatorial Guinea’s government has taken swift action. On Monday, Vice President Nguema Mangue announced a suspension of all officials involved in similar inappropriate activities within ministry offices.
He emphasized the importance of ethics and respect in government, stating that behaviours damaging public trust would not be tolerated.
Attorney General Nzang Nguema clarified that although the tapes appear consensual, there could still be risks involved for the women and the community, including potential disease spread.
Nguema urged victims to report cases of sexual abuse or coercion, underlining the need for a safe environment for such disclosures.
This scandal has led to a government crackdown, with officials working to uphold integrity and set standards for respectful behaviour in the public sector.