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Ghana demands extradition of Russian national accused of filming women without consent
Ghanaian authorities have formally requested the extradition of a Russian man accused of secretly recording sexual encounters with multiple women and distributing the videos online. The suspect, identified by media as a self-proclaimed "pick-up artist" in his thirties, allegedly used hidden cameras during his stay in Ghana.
Allegations and investigation
Reports from African and Russian outlets suggest the man used sunglasses equipped with a camera to film his interactions with women. These videos were later shared on social media platforms. However, Ghanaian officials have not confirmed the specifics of the recording method.
An initial investigation indicates the suspect likely fled the country, though authorities emphasized this does not diminish the severity of the allegations or Ghana's commitment to pursuing justice.
Diplomatic efforts and legal challenges
Ghana's Minister of Technology, Sam George, revealed he had summoned the Russian ambassador in Accra to discuss the case. George stated the man's actions violated Ghana's cybersecurity laws and demanded Moscow's cooperation in ensuring accountability for the victims.
"The actions of the Russian citizen flout our cyber-security laws. I will officially indicate to the ambassador our official position."
Sam George, Ghana's Minister of Technology
George also announced plans to collaborate with Interpol to locate the suspect, adding that Ghana would pursue a trial in absentia if the man failed to return voluntarily. Russia, however, rarely extradites its citizens, except in extraordinary circumstances.
Broader context of online abuse in Ghana
Ghana has intensified efforts to combat online sexual exploitation in recent years. Under the Cybersecurity Act 2020, sharing explicit images without consent can result in up to 25 years in prison. The law targets offenses such as revenge porn and sexual extortion, which have led to a rise in arrests.
In 2022, a Ghanaian court sentenced a 22-year-old phone repairer, Solomon Doga, to 14 years in prison for sharing nude images of a Lebanese woman without her consent. Doga pleaded guilty to sexual extortion and non-consensual distribution of intimate content.
Local media reports suggest the Russian suspect may have been involved in similar incidents in Kenya, though Ghanaian officials have not confirmed these claims.
Next steps
Ghanaian law enforcement will continue working with international agencies to track the suspect's whereabouts. Meanwhile, the government has reiterated its commitment to protecting victims of online abuse and enforcing cybersecurity laws.
