Baltasar Ebang Engonga, a prominent figure in Equatorial Guinea and former head of the General Directorate of Insurance and Reinsurance (DGAR), is facing an 18-year prison sentence in a major corruption case unfolding in Malabo
The National Prosecutor’s Office is seeking multiple sentences against him: 8 years for embezzlement, 4 years and 5 months for illicit enrichment, and 6 years and one day for abuse of office. In addition, prosecutors have asked the court to impose a fine of over 910 million CFA francs and ban him from holding public office throughout the duration of the sentence.
Engonga, who led the DGAR from 2015 to 2020, is accused of orchestrating a scheme to divert public funds for personal use, allegedly in collaboration with top-ranking officials including Carmelo Julio Matogo Ndong, Ireneo Mangue Monsuy Afana, and Florentina Iganga Iñandji.
Known by the nickname “Bello,” Engonga hails from a politically powerful family—he is the son of current CEMAC president Baltasar Engonga Edjo’o and a nephew of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. His trial is being seen as a critical test of Equatorial Guinea’s willingness to confront high-level corruption.
The case has gained added public attention due to the discovery of over 400 controversial videos found on Engonga’s electronic devices during the investigation. The footage, allegedly recorded in his office, includes explicit content involving individuals reportedly connected to government officials. The leak of these videos in late 2024 sparked widespread outrage and further tarnished the image of the ruling elite.
Engonga’s defense team has dismissed the charges as politically driven and is expected to present its case as the three-day trial continues. A verdict is expected in the coming days.
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