A Central African Journalist’s Descent into Disinformation and His Eventual Escape
Ephrem Yalike-Ngonzo, a journalist from the Central African Republic (CAR), found himself entangled in a web of Russian disinformation and propaganda, a story that reveals the insidious nature of Kremlin-backed influence operations in fragile states. In 2019, Yalike was approached by a Russian operative named Micha, later identified as Mikhail Mikhailovitch Prudnikov, an agent closely linked to the notorious Wagner Group mercenary organization. Prudnikov’s initial offer of 200,000 CFA francs (about $320) per month, more than double Yalike’s salary at the time, marked the beginning of his descent into a world of fabricated narratives and manipulated public opinion.
Yalike’s story, unearthed by Forbidden Stories, a collaborative investigative journalism platform, and its media partners, exposes the machinery of Russia’s disinformation campaign in the CAR. Initially tasked with writing pro-Russian articles, Yalike’s role expanded as he became the linchpin of Wagner’s media manipulation strategy. He recruited and managed a network of young social media influencers, distributing smartphones and coordinating the dissemination of fabricated news and pro-Wagner sentiment online.
Operating from Wagner’s headquarters at the Roux military camp in Bangui, Yalike orchestrated a sophisticated disinformation network, bribing journalists, editors, and radio station managers to publish and broadcast pro-Russian content. He even organized staged protests, seemingly demonstrating popular opposition to France, the UN, and the West, but in reality, these were carefully orchestrated events funded and directed by Wagner, with participants paid for their presence.
Yalike’s growing unease with his work escalated as he was tasked with covering up the atrocities and human rights abuses committed by Wagner mercenaries. The brutal torture of five Wagner truck drivers accused of fuel theft, a story that Yalike was suspected of leaking, marked a turning point. Fearing for his life after being interrogated and threatened by Prudnikov at gunpoint, Yalike decided to flee the CAR.
After ensuring the safety of his wife and child, Yalike escaped to a neighboring country before ultimately seeking refuge abroad. His testimony provides a chilling account of the pressure and fear experienced by those caught in the machinery of disinformation. Yalike’s case highlights how Wagner exploits the vulnerabilities of fragile states like the CAR, manipulating the media landscape and silencing critical voices through intimidation and violence. The story underscores the dangers faced by journalists who dare to challenge the narrative imposed by powerful actors like the Wagner Group.
While Yalike expresses remorse for his participation in the disinformation campaign, he believes that the Russian propaganda machine has ultimately failed to sway public opinion. Despite the pervasive fear, he maintains that the people of the CAR remain skeptical of Russian influence. His story serves as a potent warning about the insidious nature of disinformation and the courage it takes to break free from its grip. It also underscores the vital role of investigative journalism in exposing the machinations of state-sponsored propaganda and holding those responsible accountable. Yalike’s testimony sheds light on the complex interplay between geopolitical interests, mercenary activities, and the manipulation of information, offering a valuable lesson about the importance of media literacy and critical thinking in an era of rampant disinformation.