The Government has denounced the alleged abuse and exploitation of Kenyan women by a Russian national accused of secretly recording and sharing intimate images without consent, terming the claims a grave attack on privacy, dignity and the safety of women and girls.
In a statement issued on February 16, 2026, Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo said the reported acts amount to a serious violation of constitutional rights and national values. She said the conduct goes against Articles 28 and 31 of the Constitution of Kenya, which protect human dignity and the right to privacy.
Cheptumo described the incident as “not only a violation of personal dignity and privacy as protected under Articles 28 and 31 of the Constitution of Kenya, but also an affront to our national values, cultural integrity, and the safety of women and girls.”
She added that the case highlights the growing threat of digital abuse, calling it a modern form of gender-based violence carried out through technology.
“As a Government, we view such violations not merely as criminal acts but as threats to the social fabric of our society, which is founded on respect, human dignity, and protection of vulnerable persons,” she said.
The Cabinet Secretary confirmed that authorities have launched a coordinated response involving security, investigative and prosecutorial agencies. She noted that the government is treating the matter with urgency, especially because of its cross-border aspects, and is working with international partners where necessary.
“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,” Cheptumo noted.
Beyond investigations and possible prosecution, the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services is also reviewing and strengthening measures aimed at improving online safety and shielding women and children from digital exploitation. Cheptumo said the Ministry will work closely with players in the culture, tourism and hospitality sectors, as well as digital platforms, to boost awareness, prevention and accountability.
She appealed to members of the public not to circulate or share any harmful material linked to the case, warning that doing so could deepen the abuse and expose individuals to legal action.
“Doing so perpetuates abuse, undermines cultural values of respect, and may attract criminal liability,” she warned.
At the same time, Cheptumo urged survivors of abuse to seek help through the National Gender-Based Violence Toll-Free Helpline 1195. The line offers counselling, legal referrals, psychosocial support and protection services in confidence.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s role, she said, “As a Ministry charged with safeguarding gender equality, cultural dignity and the protection of children, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening national policy frameworks that prevent exploitation, promote responsible digital conduct, and protect the rights and wellbeing of every Kenyan.”
She concluded by stressing that Kenya remains firm in protecting the dignity and rights of all its people, both offline and online.
