Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has assured the public that a Russian national identified as Yaytseslav, who appeared in viral videos involving Ghanaian women, will be pursued through legal channels.
Speaking during a media engagement at the launch of the Horlap Innovation Experience, Mr. George stated that government authorities are focused primarily on potential cybercrime violations linked to the circulation of the videos online.
Focus on Cybercrime, Not Moral Judgment
According to the minister, while the individuals seen in the videos are adults who made personal decisions, the state’s concern lies in the alleged non-consensual recording and distribution of the footage.
“What the Cyber Security Authority and the Ministry of Communication is interested in is not the moral judgment of the individuals but in the non-consensual sharing of the videos that were posted online. That is a crime,” Mr. George said.
He emphasised that Ghanaian citizens, regardless of circumstances, are entitled to legal protection under national laws.
Possible International Cooperation
Mr. George further indicated that authorities would explore all available legal mechanisms to ensure the individual involved is brought to face justice if investigations establish wrongdoing.
“That gentleman will be looked for. We will activate every resource at our disposal, working with INTERPOL the way we’ve worked with INTERPOL to extradite Ghanaians to other jurisdictions. We will request the Russian authorities, and that’s why I’m inviting the Russian Ambassador to work with our law enforcement agencies,” he stated.
The minister’s remarks suggest that international law enforcement cooperation could be pursued should the case meet the legal threshold for cross-border intervention.
Legal Framework
Mr. George noted that recording an individual without consent and subsequently publishing the material online may constitute an offence under Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).
The law criminalises certain forms of cyber harassment, privacy violations, and unlawful publication of intimate content without consent.
Legal experts say enforcement of cybercrime laws has become increasingly important in Ghana amid rising cases involving digital privacy breaches and online exploitation.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The viral videos sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms, prompting debate over privacy, consent, and digital ethics.
While the minister has assured action, he did not disclose specific details regarding the current status of investigations. Authorities are expected to assess the evidence to determine whether formal charges or international processes will be initiated.
Observers note that the case highlights broader concerns about online safety and the responsible use of digital platforms.
As investigations continue, the Ministry of Communication and relevant security agencies are expected to provide further updates.
