The Government of Ghana has issued a stern warning to the public not to share or redistribute non-consensual recordings of Ghanaian women, following ongoing investigations into a Russian national alleged to have secretly recorded and monetised private encounters online.

The warning comes after a high-level meeting between the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, MP, and the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, with the Russian Ambassador to Ghana, Sergei Berdnikov.

The ministers formally briefed the Russian Embassy on the case and discussed steps to ensure accountability.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect identified as Vladislav Luilkov, recorded intimate encounters without consent and distributed the footage online for financial gain.

Authorities are tracing both digital and financial evidence linked to the crime.

The ministers stressed that the matter is a criminal offence under Section 67 of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), which prohibits the non-consensual recording and dissemination of intimate images.

Investigations also extend to any individuals, whether foreign or Ghanaian, who may have redistributed the illegal material.

Mr George's ministry acknowledged the extradition hurdles given Russian law, but revealed international collaboration has been sought to pursue Luilkov once he travels.

“Ghana respects the sovereign legal processes of the Russian Federation, but the Government remains resolute in its constitutional duty to protect its citizens and will pursue all lawful avenues to ensure justice,” the statement said.

The Russian Ambassador confirmed receipt of the formal brief, noting that while there is no extradition treaty between Ghana and Russia, the alleged conduct would also be considered criminal under Russian law.

He assured Ghana of continued diplomatic cooperation.

The Government also highlighted support for victims, as the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has established a victim support desk, staffed with clinical professionals to provide confidential psychological and emotional support.

President John Dramani Mahama’s government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, privacy, and rights of all citizens, and promised to provide updates as investigations progress.