Kenyan Authorities Target Russian Accused of Filming Women Without Consent

Kenyan authorities have launched an international search for a Russian national accused of coercing women into sexual encounters, secretly recording them, and distributing the videos online without consent.

Gender Cabinet Secretary Hannah Cheptumo confirmed on Monday that security, investigative, and prosecutorial agencies are working together on the case. She said international cooperation will be pursued, given the cross-border nature of the alleged offences. 

“The Government of Kenya is coordinating a whole-of-government response,” she said, adding that anyone found responsible will face charges under the Penal Code, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, and other laws protecting women and children.

Cheptumo described the acts as “disturbing” and stressed their seriousness as both criminal violations and social threats. She noted that the alleged conduct undermines constitutional rights to dignity and privacy, set out in Articles 28 and 31, while also endangering the safety of women and girls.

“We view such violations not merely as criminal acts but as threats to the social fabric of our society,” she said.

The case has renewed concern about online safety in Kenya, where incidents of cyber harassment, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, and online stalking have increased in recent years. Campaigners argue that although Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act provides a framework for prosecution, enforcement is uneven and public awareness remains limited. 

Officials have pledged that the law will be fully applied if the allegations are confirmed. The Ministry has also committed to strengthening policies to protect citizens from digital exploitation. 

Plans include working with stakeholders in culture, tourism, hospitality, and digital platforms to improve prevention and accountability. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect’s location is still unknown.