Equatorial Guinea’s Former Anti-Graft Chief Remanded In Prison Over Sex Tape Scandal

Baltasar Engonga, the former Director-General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF) in Equatorial Guinea, has been remanded in Malabo’s notorious Black Beach Prison following a scandal that has rocked the nation.

Engonga, 54, was arrested after authorities discovered over 400 sex tapes allegedly involving the wives of prominent political and business figures in the country.

The tapes were reportedly found during a corruption investigation into the former anti-graft chief, leading to a search of his home and office.

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The footage, which leaked online, sparked outrage across Equatorial Guinea. As the scandal unfolded, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo moved swiftly to dismiss Engonga from his position, citing “irregularities in the exercise of his functions” and “inappropriate family and social conduct.”

The formal dismissal was confirmed in Decree No. 118/2024, dated 4th November 2024.

A viral video emerged on Friday showing Engonga handcuffed and shackled during a court appearance.

French news outlet Afrikmatin reported that after his dismissal on November 6, Engonga was transferred to Black Beach Prison, where he now faces charges of corruption, embezzlement, and misconduct.

In a related development, UGStandard reported that the sex tapes began circulating on social media while Engonga was already in detention. State television TVGE confirmed that Engonga is being held on charges of embezzling public funds.