Sexual Exploitation: Russian Embassy in Ghana Issues Statement
The Russian Embassy in Ghana has issued a brief statement acknowledging an alleged sexual exploitation by one of its nationals.
The said statement failed to state any measures it would take to assist the government of Ghana’s investigations.
It read, “The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Ghana has taken note of the reports in the Ghanaian media on the alleged involvement of a supposedly Russian citizen engaged in sexual activities with some Ghanaian women and recorded and circulated those acts without consent.”
In a statement over the weekend, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection said efforts are underway to delete intimate encounters that the said Russian man allegedly shared online of multiple Ghanaian women.
It said it had collaborated with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations and relevant agencies for measures to respond to the image-based sexual abuse.
These ongoing efforts include digital safety interventions, engagement with online platforms, and mechanisms for reporting and taking down the abusive content.
“These measures are now being applied to this matter by the relevant authorities.”
The Ministry condemned the non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images as a criminal offence and a clear violation of dignity and privacy.
“Preliminary information indicates that the individual may not currently be within the country’s jurisdiction. This, however, does not reduce the seriousness of the alleged conduct or the State’s responsibility to pursue accountability.’
It disclosed that further collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, relevant security institutions, and international partners is underway to explore all lawful options available, including cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance to address the matter.
Urging caution in online and offline interactions, the Ministry said social services, including psychosocial care and legal assistance, are being coordinated through confidential channels to ensure privacy and well-being.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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