Gabon’s Specialized Criminal Court has handed down prison sentences ranging from two to fifteen years to nine former aides of Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s fight against high-level corruption.
The verdict, delivered on Tuesday, follows the earlier sentencing of Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo wife and son of ousted President Ali Bongo to 20 years in prison, tried in absentia just six days prior. All convicted individuals were part of the so-called “Young Team,” a group closely tied to Noureddin Bongo, and were ordered to repay billions of CFA francs to the state.
Court President Jean Mexant Essa Assoumou described the ruling as “a historic moment for our country”, concluding an eight-day trial that was broadcast live across Gabon. The case stems from arrests made during the 2023 coup that removed Ali Bongo from power, exposing a vast financial scheme allegedly orchestrated during his 14-year presidency.
Prosecutors detailed how public funds were systematically embezzled, laundered, and funneled into extravagant purchases. Investigators estimate that 4.9 trillion CFA francs approximately €7.5 billion were misappropriated. The Bongos reportedly used the funds to acquire oil fields, two Boeing aircraft, and luxury properties in Gabon, Morocco, and London.
This sweeping crackdown signals Gabon’s intensified efforts to dismantle entrenched corruption networks and reclaim stolen assets.
