OPAG warns against sharing 'Russian sex videos', cites criminal liability

The Online Publishers Association of Ghana (OPAG) has issued a stern warning to its members and the general public against publishing or sharing the so-called “Russian sex videos,” describing such acts as criminal offences under Ghanaian law.

In a statement released on February 15, 2026, OPAG noted that the Cyber Security Act, 2020 (Act 1038) explicitly prohibits the non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images, describing it as “a criminal offence and a clear violation of dignity and privacy.”

The statement comes in the wake of a viral video reportedly showing a Russian national luring some Ghanaian women into a hotel room and secretly recording intimate acts, an incident that sparked national conversations about online ethics and the protection of victims.

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OPAG President Michael Petit Mawugbe, also known as Efo Mawugbe, emphasized the ethical responsibility of online journalists, stating, “As online publishers, we must always bear in mind that ethics cannot be sacrificed for speed, as ethics remains the overarching rudiment of our profession. Publishing images or videos of females can cause psychological trauma to the victims and their families.”

He further urged members of the public and online publishers to refrain from circulating the videos.

“It is in light of this that OPAG urges all members to cease the publication or sharing of the videos as a way of protecting the dignity of the victims,” the statement said.

Highlighting OPAG’s commitment to a safe online environment, Mawugbe added, “OPAG remains committed to raising awareness in ensuring a safe online space devoid of misinformation, disinformation, and cybercrime. Whilst we commend government for its efforts at extraditing the Russian to face the laws of Ghana, OPAG wishes to express its commitment to partner with all relevant agencies in combating cyberbullying, sextortion, misinformation, and disinformation.”

The association reiterated that the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) Act remains in force, and adherence to it is critical to avoid legal repercussions.