Equatorial Guinea government has filed a lawsuit against Baltasar Engonga, the former head of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), after he was allegedly linked to multiple sex tapes that surfaced online. The scandal has led to public outrage and raised concerns about ethical conduct among top officials.
The government, expressing its disapproval, stated that Engonga’s actions “violate the ethical and moral values of noble Equatorial Guinean society.” Jerónimo Osa Osa, Minister of Information, Press, and Culture, announced the decision in a public address over the weekend, explaining that the State Attorney General’s Office would begin a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
According to the local media outlet Ahora EG, several videos have gone viral, allegedly showing Engonga involved in sexual acts with various women, including some who are married to prominent figures.
In response, the government is pursuing legal action through the Public Prosecutor’s Office to hold Engonga accountable. It aims to assess potential violations at multiple levels, including administrative, civil, and criminal, given the scandal’s impact on the country’s image and social values.
“In light of these serious events, which severely undermine family and social cohesion… the government has commenced a thorough investigation to establish responsibilities,” a government spokesperson noted. This incident has sparked a larger debate within the country, with officials emphasizing that those involved will face consequences.
Engonga’s arrest reportedly followed a separate fraud investigation during which authorities searched his home and office. ANIF officials allegedly found a trove of video recordings involving high-profile individuals, including relatives of the country’s leadership and spouses of government ministers.
In response to the scandal, Vice-President Teodoro Mangue announced a crackdown on “indecent and illicit acts” within government offices, stating that officials found engaging in sexual activities in the workplace would be sanctioned for “flagrant violations” of the code of conduct. Additionally, the government has ordered surveillance cameras to be installed in courts and other public offices to prevent similar misconduct.
