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The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has condemned alleged acts of digital s.exual exploitation involving a foreign national accused of engaging in s.exual activities with Ghanaian women, recording the encounters, and circulating the footage without their consent.
The development follows the circulation of a viral video showing a Russian man identified as Yaytseslav interacting with Ghanaian women, who later accompanied him to his hotel. He subsequently shared footage of the encounter on social media, triggering widespread outrage.
The incident has sparked intense public debate over online exploitation, digital consent and enforcement of Ghana’s cybersecurity laws, with many calling for his arrest and prosecution.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Ministry said it had taken note of reports suggesting 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 accountability.
“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 recent reports, it had been collaborating with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations and relevant agencies to strengthen efforts against image-based s.exual abuse. Measures include digital safety initiatives, engagement with online platforms, and systems for reporting and removing abusive content. Authorities are currently applying these mechanisms to the case.
It further indicated that it is working closely with the Ghana Police Service, other security agencies and international partners to explore all lawful avenues, including cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance.
The Ministry added that support services, including psychosocial care and legal assistance, are being coordinated through confidential channels to safeguard the privacy and well-being of affected individuals.
Toll-free helplines for complaints and enquiries related to abuse and violence are available on 0800-800-800, 0800-900-900 and 0800-111-222.
The Ministry also urged the public to exercise caution in both online and offline interactions.
