The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has strongly condemned alleged acts of digital sexual exploitation involving a foreign national accused of engaging in sexual activities with Ghanaian women, secretly recording the encounters, and circulating the footage without their consent.
The reaction follows the circulation of a viral video showing a Russian man identified as Yaytseslav interacting with some Ghanaian women who later accompanied him to his hotel. The man reportedly shared recordings of the encounter on social media, triggering widespread public outrage.
The incident has sparked intense online debate over issues of digital consent, online exploitation and the enforcement of Ghana’s cybersecurity laws, with many calling for the suspect to be arrested and prosecuted.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Ministry said it had taken note of reports suggesting that the suspect may no longer be within Ghana’s jurisdiction. It stressed, however, that this does not lessen the seriousness of the alleged conduct or the State’s responsibility to pursue justice.
“The non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images is a criminal offence and a clear violation of dignity and privacy,” the statement said.
The Ministry disclosed that even before the latest reports, it had been collaborating with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations and relevant agencies to strengthen efforts to prevent and respond to image-based sexual abuse.
According to the statement, ongoing measures include digital safety initiatives, engagement with online platforms, and systems for reporting and removing abusive content. Authorities are currently applying these mechanisms to address the case.
The Ministry further noted that it is working closely with the Ghana Police Service, other security institutions and international partners to explore all lawful avenues, including cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance.
“Support services, including psychosocial care and legal assistance, are being coordinated through confidential channels to ensure privacy and well-being,” the Ministry added.
It also reminded the public that toll-free helplines are available for complaints and enquiries relating to abuse and violence via 0800-800-800, 0800-900-900 and 0800-111-222.
The Ministry urged citizens to exercise caution in both online and offline interactions.
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