Nairobi, July 3- Former Equatorial Guinea government official Baltasar Engonga is facing up to 18 years in prison after appearing before a Malabo court on June 30 in a high-profile corruption trial. Engonga, 54, a former head of the Directorate General of Insurance and Reinsurance, is accused of orchestrating a major embezzlement scheme between 2015 and 2020.
Beyond the financial allegations, the case has taken a sensational turn with the alleged discovery of over 400 sex tapes during the investigation. The videos, reportedly featuring consensual encounters with wives of senior political, military, and presidential figures were found on CDs in Engonga’s home and office. Some footage has since leaked online, further intensifying the scandal.
Engonga has been held at Black Beach Prison since September 2024. Prosecutors are seeking eight years for embezzlement, over four years for unlawful enrichment, and six years for abuse of power, in addition to a $1.5 million fine and a lifetime ban from public office.
Six other senior officials are also facing charges linked to what prosecutors describe as a vast corruption network. The trial continues as defence lawyers prepare to present their case.
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