Equatorial Guinea’s former anti-graft chief, Baltasar Engonga, has been remanded in Malabo’s Black Beach Prison following a scandal involving over 400 sex tapes. The tapes, allegedly recorded with the wives of prominent figures, were discovered during a fraud investigation into Engonga, leading to his immediate arrest and dismissal.
On November 6, 2024, Engonga, who served as the Director-General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), was arrested after ANIF officials conducted an impromptu search of his home and office. This search revealed several CDs containing footage of his sexual encounters, which subsequently leaked online, causing a media uproar.
President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo dismissed Engonga, citing "irregularities committed in the exercise of his functions, as well as inappropriate family and social conduct for the performance of public duties," according to Decree No. 118/2024 dated November 4th.
The scandal has not only led to Engonga's arrest but also sparked widespread public outrage and debate about corruption and ethical misconduct within the government. Engonga now faces charges of corruption and embezzlement, with the situation further inflamed by viral videos showing him handcuffed during a court appearance.
French online blog Afrikmatin confirmed that Engonga was officially removed from his role on November 6, 2024, and transferred to Malabo Central Prison. Meanwhile, state television TVGE reported that the sex tapes began circulating on social networks while Engonga was already held at Black Beach Prison on charges of embezzling public funds.
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