Equatorial Guinea: Frenchman arrested on suspicion of espionage

A French national has been arrested in Equatorial Guinea on suspicion of espionage and alleged links to an opposition movement in exile. According to state television, he was arrested in Rio Campo, near the border with Cameroon.

Authorities say they found maps and sketches of border areas between Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and Gabon in his possession. They are also examining his alleged contacts with a member of the Coalition for the Restoration of a Democratic State (CORED), an opposition movement that Malabo considers a terrorist organization.

According to reports, the Frenchman explained that he had come to explore investment opportunities in poultry farming. The origin of the documents found and the reasons for his presence in the area remain unclear.

The investigation is ongoing and the suspicions of espionage have not yet been established.

Yolande Bazié