Gov’t launches investigations into Russian national over non-consensual sharing of intimate videos

The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has officially launched an investigation into disturbing reports that a foreign national, believed to be Russian, recorded and distributed intimate videos of Ghanaian women without their consent.

In an official statement released on February 14, the Ministry confirmed it is aware of the allegations, which claim the individual engaged in sexual acts with several Ghanaian women during a visit to the country and subsequently circulated the footage on social media platforms.

While authorities believe the suspect may have already left Ghanaian jurisdiction, the MoGCSP emphasized that his physical absence does not diminish the severity of the offense or the government’s commitment to pursuing justice.

“The non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images is a criminal offence and a violation of dignity and privacy,” the Ministry’s statement read. “The seriousness of the conduct and the state’s responsibility to pursue accountability remain unchanged.”

Cross-Border Collaboration

The Ministry confirmed it is working in close collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations, and other security agencies to explore all available legal avenues. This includes leveraging cross-border cooperation with international partners to potentially locate and prosecute the individual.

The statement also highlighted that the government has been actively developing digital safety interventions aimed at combating image-based sexual abuse. These measures include mechanisms for rapid content takedown and enhanced digital safety protocols to protect citizens online.

Support for Victims

In addition to the pursuit of legal action, the MoGCSP is coordinating support services for the affected women. Through confidential channels, the government is providing access to psychosocial care and legal assistance to help the victims navigate the trauma and seek redress.

Public Warning

The Ministry has urged the general public to exercise extreme caution in both online and offline interactions, warning of the risks associated with image-based sexual abuse and the long-term harm it causes to victims’ dignity and privacy.

The government has vowed to provide updates on the investigation as it progresses, reaffirming its stance that Ghana will not be a safe haven for perpetrators of digital sexual abuse.