Ghana Summons Russian Envoy Over Viral Intimate Videos Scandal

The Government of Ghana has formally summoned the Russian Ambassador to Accra after a man described as a “supposed Russian national” allegedly published sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women online without their consent — an act authorities say violates both Ghanaian law and the dignity of the victims.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov was invited to the Ministry on the instructions of the Foreign Affairs Minister to register Ghana’s “strong displeasure” over the matter and to seek Russia’s cooperation in bringing the perpetrator to justice.

A Diplomatic Protest With Gender Implications

Beyond the diplomatic undertones, the case raises urgent concerns about digital sexual violence and the vulnerability of women in cross-border cybercrime. The unlawful circulation of intimate images — often referred to as non-consensual pornography or “revenge porn” — is increasingly recognised globally as a form of gender-based violence, with profound psychological, social and economic consequences for victims.

The Ministry described the act as “atrocious,” stressing that it violates Ghanaian law and the privacy and dignity of the affected women.

Ambassador Berdnikov, according to the statement, acknowledged the seriousness of the alleged violation and the broader cybercrime implications. He reportedly expressed the Russian Federation’s willingness to cooperate with Ghanaian authorities.

However, the Ambassador indicated that he could not confirm the nationality of the individual at the centre of the viral videos. He further disclosed that the name circulating in sections of the media is not a recognised Russian name, but rather an inappropriate or vulgar expression in the Russian language.

International Dimensions of the Case

The Ambassador also revealed that similar online activities attributed to the individual had surfaced in other countries and had drawn the attention of Russian authorities, with experts currently investigating.

While Ghana and Russia maintain longstanding bilateral relations, the absence of a legally binding extradition treaty between the two countries may complicate potential legal proceedings should the suspect be confirmed to be outside Ghana’s jurisdiction.

Nevertheless, Ambassador Berdnikov pledged that the Russian Embassy in Accra would share relevant information to support Ghana’s ongoing investigations and efforts to apprehend the individual.

Government Vows Justice

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public that the Government would leverage diplomatic channels and international legal mechanisms to secure justice for the victims.

The development underscores the growing intersection between diplomacy, cybersecurity and gender justice. As digital platforms transcend borders, cases of online sexual exploitation increasingly demand coordinated international responses.

For the affected women, however, the issue remains deeply personal — one that speaks not only to national sovereignty and international cooperation, but to the fundamental right to privacy, dignity and protection in the digital age.

 

 

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