Yaytseslav: Russia Unable to Confirm Nationality of Suspect in Viral Explicit Videos Case – Ghana’s Foreign Ministry

Yaytseslav: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed that the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, Sergei Berdnikov, has stated that he is unable to confirm the nationality of the individual alleged to have unlawfully published sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women.

The revelation was contained in a press release dated February 17, following a diplomatic meeting between the Ambassador and Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Ghana Expresses Strong Displeasure

According to the Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the meeting was convened to formally convey the Government of Ghana’s strong displeasure regarding the actions of the individual identified as Vyacheslav Trahov, also known as Yaytseslav. Authorities described the alleged conduct as a serious violation of Ghanaian law and an affront to the dignity and privacy of the victims involved.

The government also sought Russia’s cooperation in efforts to pursue justice and apprehend the suspect.

However, during the discussions, Ambassador Berdnikov reportedly clarified that he could not verify whether the individual in question is a Russian national.

“The Russian Ambassador indicated that he is unable to confirm the Russian nationality of the individual at the centre of the intimate viral videos,” the Ministry stated.

Additionally, the Ambassador disclosed that the name circulating in media reports is not recognized as a legitimate Russian name. He explained that the purported name instead represents an inappropriate or vulgar expression in the Russian language.

Ongoing Investigations and Cybercrime Concerns

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa further indicated that Russian authorities are aware of similar alleged activities linked to the same individual in other countries. According to the Ambassador, these matters have come to the attention of Russian experts and are currently under investigation.

While declining to confirm nationality, Ambassador Berdnikov acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, particularly the privacy violations and broader cybercrime implications surrounding the case.

He reportedly pledged that the Russian Embassy in Ghana is prepared to share relevant information that may assist Ghanaian authorities in their investigations. This cooperation, he noted, would take place within the framework of existing bilateral relations between Ghana and Russia.

Notably, the Ministry highlighted that Ghana and Russia do not currently have a legally binding extradition treaty. Despite this limitation, both sides expressed willingness to collaborate to ensure accountability where appropriate.

Ghana’s Commitment to Justice

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the government’s determination to pursue justice through all available international legal mechanisms and diplomatic channels.

It assured the public that Ghana will leverage its longstanding bilateral relationship with Russia to facilitate cooperation in addressing the matter. Authorities also emphasised the importance of protecting victims’ rights and maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s legal system in cases involving cybercrime and privacy violations.

The government’s response signals a firm stance against the non-consensual publication of intimate material, which constitutes a criminal offence under Ghanaian law and carries serious legal consequences.

As investigations continue, officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that due process is followed and that appropriate action is taken to safeguard the dignity and rights of affected individuals.

Source: 3news.com

Also read: How to Apply for Health Training Institutions 2025/2026 Admission in Ghana