Nairobi, Kenya, November 8- Baltasar Ebang Engonga, Director General of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), has been arrested following the discovery of hundreds of explicit videos featuring prominent officials’ wives. Known for his pivotal role in investigating financial crime, Engonga’s career now faces upheaval as details of this scandal continue to unfold.
The controversy erupted during a recent fraud investigation when ANIF officials conducted a surprise search of Engonga’s home and office, uncovering over 400 videos allegedly showing Engonga in intimate encounters with multiple women, many of whom are married to high-ranking officials.
Reports indicate that the tapes, recorded with the women’s consent, involve well-known figures, including the President’s sister, his brother’s wife, and the wives of nearly 20 ministers and other top officials. Shockingly, many of these encounters reportedly took place within Engonga’s government office.
The Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Nguema, responded swiftly, calling the actions a “flagrant violation” of the country’s Code of Conduct and Public Ethics Law. “These acts compromise the integrity and trust placed in our government,” he said, announcing immediate suspensions for any officials who engaged in similar behavior on government premises. Nguema emphasized that the administration has “zero tolerance” for misconduct that tarnishes the country’s reputation.
The scandal has also raised health concerns due to reports of unprotected encounters, with Attorney General Nzang Nguema urging any potential victims to come forward. While consensual acts are not considered criminal under the law, the Attorney General pointed out the broader public health risks and the importance of maintaining ethical standards within public service.
Engonga, who is married and has six children, faces further investigations and potential charges related to his conduct in public office. As the scandal continues to ripple through Equatorial Guinea, it has triggered a national conversation on the responsibilities of public officials, with calls for increased accountability and a re-examination of ethical standards in government.
