Equatorial Guinea’s Financial Crime Chief Embroiled in Massive Sex Scandal and Embezzlement Allegations

Baltasar Ebang Engonga, the director general of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), has been at the center of a significant scandal involving explicit videos and allegations of large-scale financial misconduct. Engonga, also known as “Bello,” was reportedly caught on video engaging in explicit activities with multiple women, including his brother’s wife, a cousin, and the sister of Equatorial Guinea’s President.

The scandal came to light when investigators found over 400 videos on his personal computer, showing encounters with various women at different locations, including his office in the finance ministry, hotels, and public spaces. The videos, which were reportedly recorded with consent, were later leaked online, sparking widespread public outrage and condemnation from government officials.

Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue addressed the scandal in a public statement, emphasizing that sexual relations in administrative workplaces are strictly prohibited and warned that violations would lead to disciplinary action, including dismissal. He also ordered the immediate suspension of all civil servants who have had sexual relations in government offices.

Engonga is also facing allegations of large-scale financial misconduct, with accusations of involvement in a scheme that misappropriated over 1.2 billion Central African CFA francs in public funds. As a result, he and other officials have been placed under preventive detention, with several of his assets frozen as authorities investigate the extent of the alleged embezzlement.

The Attorney General, Anatolio Nzang Nguema, has stated that while the videos suggest consensual relations, the situation poses risks to the women involved, their partners, and the community due to the potential spread of infectious diseases. He emphasized the importance of victims coming forward to report any abuse or assault.

The scandal highlights the deep-rooted issues of power dynamics and accountability within Equatorial Guinea’s government, where family ties and political influence often shield elites from repercussions. This case has raised serious questions about the moral and ethical conduct of prominent officials and the need for genuine accountability in the country.