The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has strongly condemned alleged acts of image-based sexual abuse involving a foreign national, describing the conduct as a serious crime and a violation of the dignity and privacy of Ghanaian women.
The reaction follows the spread of a viral video online showing a Russian man in conversation with several Ghanaian women before they accompanied him to a hotel. Footage of the encounter was later uploaded to social media without the women’s consent, triggering public anger and renewed scrutiny of digital safety and consent in Ghana.
What authorities are saying
In a statement dated Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Ministry said it had received information suggesting the suspect may have left Ghana. It stressed, however, that jurisdictional challenges do not weaken 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 Ministry stated.
Ongoing actions and coordination
The Ministry disclosed that, even before reports of the suspect’s possible departure, it had begun working with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations and relevant agencies to prevent and respond to image-based sexual abuse. Measures underway include:
• digital safety and awareness initiatives,
• engagement with online platforms to flag and remove abusive content, and
• strengthened reporting and takedown mechanisms.
According to the Ministry, these interventions are being applied to the current case.
Law enforcement and international cooperation
The Ministry added that it is collaborating with the Ghana Police Service, other security institutions, and international partners to explore lawful options such as cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance.
Support for affected persons is also being prioritized. Psychosocial care and legal assistance are being coordinated through confidential channels to protect survivors’ privacy and wellbeing.
How to report abuse
Members of the public can report abuse or seek help via the following toll-free lines:
• 0800-800-800
• 0800-900-900
• 0800-111-222
Public advisory
The Ministry urged the public to remain cautious in both online and offline interactions, emphasizing the importance of digital consent, personal safety, and responsible online behavior as authorities continue their investigations.
Source: Africa Publicity
