The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has condemned reports of digital sexual exploitation allegedly involving a foreign national who is said to have engaged in sexual acts with Ghanaian women, recorded the encounters, and circulated the footage without their consent.
The case emerged following the viral circulation of a video showing a Russian man, identified as Yaytseslav, interacting with several Ghanaian women who later accompanied him to a hotel.
Footage of the encounter was subsequently shared on social media, prompting widespread public outrage.
The incident has sparked national debate about online exploitation, digital consent, and the enforcement of Ghana’s cybersecurity laws, with many calling for the suspect to be arrested and prosecuted.
In a statement released on Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Ministry noted that reports indicate the individual may no longer be within Ghana’s jurisdiction.
Nevertheless, it emphasized that this does not reduce the seriousness of the alleged acts or the State’s responsibility to pursue accountability.
“The non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images is a criminal offense and a violation of dignity and privacy,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry confirmed that it had been working with the Ministry of Communications and Digital Innovations and relevant agencies to implement measures to prevent and respond to image-based sexual abuse.
These initiatives include digital safety programmes, engagement with online platforms, and mechanisms for reporting and removing abusive content, all of which are being applied in this case by the authorities.
Additionally, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ghana Police Service, other security institutions, and international partners to explore all lawful options, including cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance.
Support services, including psychosocial counseling and legal assistance, are being provided through confidential channels to protect privacy and well-being.
Toll-free helplines for complaints and inquiries about abuse and violence are available at 0800-800-800, 0800-900-900, and 0800-111-222.
The Ministry urged the public to exercise caution in their interactions, both online and offline.
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Read the full statement below:
