A scandal involving high-ranking civil servant Baltasar Ebang Engonga has shaken Equatorial Guinea.

Videos showing him engaging in sexual acts in his office have been widely circulated, prompting swift action from Vice-President Teodoro Obiang Mangue.

 

Details of the Scandal

The leaked videos reportedly feature Mr. Engonga, who is the head of the National Financial Investigation Agency and a relative of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.

The recordings show him with various women, including the wives of prominent officials, in his office.

Vice-President’s Response

Vice-President Obiang has expressed strong disapproval, stating that any officials caught engaging in sex acts at work will face “severe measures” due to the violation of the public code of conduct.

The scandal has led to the decision to install surveillance cameras in courts and ministries to prevent future incidents of “indecent and illicit acts.”

Impact on Internet Access

The release of the videos has significantly impacted the country’s internet access.

Vice-President Obiang ordered telecom companies to curb the spread of the content, resulting in disrupted internet traffic and limitations on downloading images, as reported by AFP.

Investigation and Potential Charges

Mr. Engonga was already facing separate charges related to corruption, and state television TVGE reported that the videos were leaked after his arrest.

The chief prosecutor, Anatolio Nzang Nguema, has indicated that if Mr. Engonga is found to have a sexually transmitted disease, he could face additional charges related to public health offenses.

Public Reactions and Comments

On his Facebook page, Mr. Engonga expressed sadness and posted a photo with the caption: “Family is everything.”

He has not provided further comment on the scandal, despite the BBC’s request for his response.

The scandal involving Mr. Engonga has tarnished the public image of Equatorial Guinea and prompted calls for stronger measures to uphold integrity within government offices. The investigation into his actions and the repercussions of the scandal are ongoing.