In Gabon, the National Financial Prosecutor's Office has asked the criminal court to investigate 18 individuals and five companies in connection with a case involving assets that may have been improperly acquired. This request was made in late July 2026 and marks a significant development in a high-profile legal case involving former political figures and their associates. The case has drawn attention due to its potential implications for public finances and corruption allegations. Ali Bongo, the former president of Gabon, made his first public statement on the matter in a video. He addressed the case involving illegally acquired assets, though he did not provide specific details about his own involvement or the nature of the allegations against him. His comments come at a time of heightened scrutiny over the use of public funds and the management of state resources in Gabon. French authorities are reportedly involved in the investigation and have raised concerns about how certain individuals and companies acquired assets worth approximately 85 million euros. According to French officials, these assets may have been obtained using public funds, which would constitute a serious misuse of state resources. The involvement of French authorities suggests that the case may have international dimensions, potentially involving cross-border financial transactions or legal cooperation. Among those under investigation are nine of the children of Omar Bongo, the former president of Gabon who ruled the country for more than four decades. Omar Bongo passed away in 2009, but his family has remained prominent in Gabonese politics. The investigation into the alleged misuse of public funds by his children has sparked public interest and could have significant political and legal consequences for the country. The case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in Gabon's political and financial systems.