Government Finally Issues Directive in Case Involving Russian Citizen and Kenyan Women

The Government of Kenya has directed security and investigative agencies to move with speed following a disturbing incident in which a Russian national allegedly recorded and circulated intimate images of Kenyan women without their consent.

In a statement issued by Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, the ministry condemned the incident as a gross violation of dignity, privacy and national values.

The CS described the matter as a serious form of technology-facilitated gender-based violence and exploitation, stressing that it represents not only a criminal offence but a threat to the country’s cultural integrity and the safety of women and girls.

According to the ministry, a coordinated multi-agency response is already underway. Security, investigative and prosecutorial bodies have been instructed to prioritize the case and work closely with international counterparts due to its cross-border dimensions.

The government has affirmed that anyone found responsible will face stringent penalties under the Penal Code, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, and laws protecting women and children.

The Government of Kenya is coordinating a whole-of-government response. Relevant security, investigative and prosecutorial agencies have been directed to pursue the matter with urgency, including collaboration with international authorities given the cross-border nature of the case. 

Any individual found culpable will face the full force of Kenyan law under the Penal Code, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, and all relevant statutes protecting women and children." said CS Cheptumo

Beyond the ongoing investigations, the ministry announced plans to intensify policies and programmes aimed at safeguarding women and children online.

This includes strengthening digital safety frameworks and collaborating with stakeholders in culture, tourism, hospitality and digital platforms to improve prevention, awareness and accountability.

The government also urged Kenyans to avoid sharing or circulating the illicit content, warning that doing so perpetuates harm and may constitute a criminal offence.

CS Cheptumo reaffirmed the ministry’s solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence and encouraged affected women to seek confidential support through the National GBV Toll-Free Helpline 1195, which offers counselling, legal referrals and psychosocial assistance.

“Kenya remains firm in defending the dignity of its men, women and children—offline and online,” the statement concluded.