The Government of Ghana has intensified its stance against cyber-related sexual exploitation, with Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George summoning Sergei Berdnikov over alleged criminal conduct involving a Russian national.
The minister confirmed that the ambassador has been invited for discussions following allegations that Russian content creator Vyacheslav Trahova recorded and circulated intimate videos of Ghanaian women without their consent. Authorities say the case raises serious legal concerns under Ghana’s cybercrime laws.
Mr George emphasized that the issue is not about the private choices of consenting adults but about potential criminal violations. According to him, while adults are free to make personal decisions, secretly recording and distributing intimate content without consent constitutes a punishable offence under Ghanaian law.
He disclosed that the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), which operates under his ministry, has begun compiling a detailed case file under the Cyber Security Authority Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to support possible prosecution.
The minister further indicated that Ghana is prepared to pursue international legal channels, including collaboration with Interpol, to ensure accountability. He stated that authorities would formally request cooperation from Russian officials and could seek extradition if necessary.
“We will activate every resource at our disposal,” he said, adding that Ghana has previously worked with Interpol in extradition matters and expects similar collaboration in this instance.
Mr George also stressed that the administration of John Dramani Mahama remains committed to protecting citizens’ rights, regardless of personal decisions they may make.
He warned that Ghanaian law provides severe penalties for the publication of explicit images without full consent, with offenders facing lengthy prison terms if convicted.
The development underscores Ghana’s growing focus on digital safety and cross-border cybercrime enforcement, as authorities seek to reinforce protections in an increasingly interconnected online environment.
