The governments of Kenya and Ghana are investigating allegations that a Russian national secretly recorded sexual encounters with women in both countries and distributed the footage online without their consent, a development authorities in both states have described as a serious criminal matter.
Officials say the case is being treated with urgency because of its implications for privacy, sexual exploitation, and the cross-border nature of the alleged offences. While investigations are still at an early stage, the allegations have sparked widespread public concern and renewed debate about the protection of women and the misuse of digital technologies in intimate settings.
According to reports in African and Russian media, the suspect is a Russian man in his 30s who styles himself as a “pick-up artist” and online blogger, producing content centred on his interactions with women. Media accounts allege that he secretly filmed sexual encounters with women in Kenya and Ghana and later shared the recordings on social media platforms without the women’s knowledge or consent.
Authorities in both countries have stressed that these reports are under active investigation and that no conclusions have yet been reached, cautioning that the suspect’s guilt or innocence must be determined through due legal process.
Some of the reports claim the man used covert recording devices, including sunglasses allegedly fitted with a hidden camera, to film some of the encounters. However, officials in both Kenya and Ghana have said they have not independently confirmed the specific methods used to obtain the footage.
What has been confirmed, according to government statements, is that investigators are examining online material believed to be connected to the case, as well as tracing how the videos were allegedly circulated. The reported sharing of such content on social media has raised serious concerns about violations of privacy, the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, and the broader issue of digital sexual abuse, particularly when content can be rapidly disseminated across borders.
In Ghana, authorities have said they intend to formally request the extradition of the suspect from Russia, where he is believed to be based. A government spokesperson said the alleged acts, if proven, would constitute serious crimes under Ghanaian law and warrant international cooperation to ensure accountability.
In Kenya, the government has said it is pursuing the case “with urgency,” with law enforcement agencies working to identify potential victims, secure digital evidence, and liaise with international partners. Officials in both countries have emphasised their commitment to protecting victims and ensuring that those responsible for sexual exploitation and privacy violations are brought to justice.
The case has drawn attention to existing laws in both Kenya and Ghana that criminalise the non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images. In Kenya, such acts can fall under provisions relating to cybercrime, sexual offences, and violations of privacy, carrying significant penalties upon conviction.
Ghanaian law similarly prohibits the unauthorised capture and sharing of intimate images, recognising the harm such actions cause to victims’ dignity, safety, and mental well-being. Legal experts note that enforcement can be challenging when alleged perpetrators operate across jurisdictions, underscoring the importance of international legal cooperation.
Beyond the immediate investigations, the allegations have highlighted growing global concerns about online sexual exploitation and the abuse of surveillance and recording technologies. Human rights advocates say cases like this illustrate how easily everyday devices can be weaponised to violate consent, particularly in intimate contexts, and how digital platforms can amplify harm when illicit content is shared widely. They argue that stronger safeguards, public awareness, and cooperation between governments and technology companies are essential to combat such abuses.
As the investigations continue, the case is expected to test diplomatic, legal, and human rights frameworks governing cross-border crimes. Authorities in Kenya and Ghana say their priority is to establish the facts, support any victims who come forward, and ensure accountability in line with the law.