Sylvia Bongo Ondimba, former first lady of Gabon, finds herself at the heart of the news with her recent pre-trial detention in a case of economic crimes. Following the coup that took place in August, Sylvia Bongo was already under house arrest, but she was placed in prison on the night of October 11 to 12 for a period of ten days.
The charges against her are serious, including receiving stolen property, forgery and use of forgery, as well as money laundering. This provisional incarceration was decided by an investigating judge following a referral request made by Me Gisèle Eyue Békalé, the lawyer of the former first lady. Sylvia Bongo was transferred to Libreville central prison, according to information reported by our correspondent, Yves-Laurent Goma.
It seems that Sylvia Bongo was prepared for this situation, as warning signs have appeared in recent weeks. Her son, who was with her in her house arrest, was removed on October 4. Then his dogs were kidnapped by an animal handler. In addition, she was deprived of her domestic staff and her beauty bag. All of this indicates preparation for possible incarceration.
In her cell, Sylvia Bongo joins her son Noureddin Bongo Valentin, arrested during the coup d’état, as well as Brice Laccruche Alihanga, her husband’s former chief of staff. There was a confrontation between Sylvia Bongo and Brice Laccruche Alihanga before his detention. Her leading role at the top of the state, particularly since her husband’s illness, made her one of the main figures in this affair.
Sylvia Bongo’s French lawyer, Maître François Zimeray, contests the procedure carried out against his client. According to him, since he was placed under house arrest, the procedure has been illegal. He also highlights the fact that Sylvia Bongo does not benefit from legal representation, affirming that she must be defended to uphold the principles of justice and law.
This news of the detention of Sylvia Bongo Ondimba, former first lady of Gabon, does not fail to arouse attention. The accusations against her and her indictment for economic crimes mark a turning point in this case which continues to make headlines. Case to be followed closely to know future developments.
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