African Union officials called in April for the release of Bongo's wife, Sylvia Bongo, 62, and son Noureddin, 33, who were taken into custody shortly after the August 2023 coup and accused of crimes including embezzlement and money laundering.

The 66 year old was initially placed under house arrest after the coup though officials later said he was free to move as he wished.

His supporters said this was untrue but he is not known to have left Libreville since then.

Two sources familiar with the case told Reuters the family had left Gabon before midnight on Thursday.

--Reuters--