Baltasar Ebang Engonga: 7 Revealing Facts on the Politician Behind Equatorial Guinea’s 400 Videos Scandal
Baltasar Ebang Engonga, a high-ranking government official from Equatorial Guinea, has recently gained notoriety following the leak of over 400 explicit videos. Engonga, aged 54, serves as the Director-General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). In these tapes, he is reportedly seen in compromising situations with various women, including wives of prominent government officials. His family connections, both personal and political, only add to the intrigue surrounding the scandal.
The scandal has sent shockwaves through Equatorial Guinea, with the government reacting swiftly to address the public outrage. The revelations have led to widespread speculation and have drawn responses from top government officials, including the Vice President. Here’s what you need to know about the man at the centre of it all.
1. Powerful Family Ties
Baltasar Ebang Engonga comes from a well-known political family. His father, Baltasar Engonga Edjo, serves as the Chairman of the Commission of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community, a high-profile regional position. Engonga is also related to the President of Equatorial Guinea, adding a complex political layer to the scandal.
2. Nicknamed “Bello”
The politician is known locally as “Bello,” meaning “handsome.” Known for his good looks, Engonga reportedly used his charm to attract his partners, some of whom are said to be the spouses of other government officials. His appearance and high-profile position are often credited with his local popularity.
3. Over 400 Tapes Found
The scandal centres around over 400 explicit tapes reportedly shot in Engonga’s government office. According to local reports, these videos depict encounters with various women, some of whom are believed to be related to prominent officials in the country. These tapes were discovered during a fraud investigation, which subsequently led to Engonga’s arrest.
“The government will take severe measures against these acts, as it violates public ethics and the code of conduct,” said Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue.
4. Arrested Amid Fraud Allegations
The tapes were uncovered during an investigation into alleged embezzlement by Engonga. Law enforcement conducted searches at his office and home, leading to the shocking discovery. He is now being held at Malabo’s Black Beach prison, awaiting further action on both the fraud and personal misconduct allegations.
5. Government Cracks Down
In the wake of the scandal, the Equatorial Guinean government has taken significant action. Vice President Nguema announced that all civil servants involved in inappropriate behaviour within government offices would be suspended immediately. He added that this action is meant to protect the integrity of public service and prevent similar incidents.
“As the government, we cannot continue to see families destroyed,” said Nguema, emphasising the need to maintain public trust.
6. Social Media Outrage and Speculation
Following the leak, social media has been flooded with reactions. Residents of Equatorial Guinea and beyond are speculating that additional tapes involving other officials might surface soon. Internet services have reportedly slowed, with authorities said to be attempting to control the spread of the videos.
7. Public Health Concern
Chief prosecutor Anatolio Nzang Nguema added a health dimension to the scandal, stating that Engonga would face charges if he is found to have transmitted a sexually transmitted disease. The public health concern adds another serious layer to an already complex scandal.
The tapes’ release has left the nation in turmoil. As the government tries to restore order and prevent further leaks, the public remains on high alert, wondering what will come next.