Russian Man Allegedly Infects Over 700 Women With HIV Across Africa, Sparks Cross-Border Health and Security Concerns

Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.
A Russian national is at the centre of a growing international controversy following allegations that he deliberately infected more than 700 women with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) across multiple countries, including Kenya and Ghana, before returning to Russia and reportedly sharing images and videos of his activities online. The disturbing claims, which have circulated widely across African and international media platforms, allege that the suspect travelled to several African countries with the specific intent of engaging in unprotected sexual encounters in order to spread HIV. Reports further claim that he documented parts of his travels and interactions on social media after returning to his home country.
Authorities in Kenya and Ghana have not publicly confirmed the total number of alleged victims, but law enforcement agencies in the affected countries are said to be reviewing the matter amid mounting public concern. Allegations and Public Reaction
According to reports first amplified on social media and later referenced by regional media outlets, the suspect allegedly targeted women in nightlife districts and online dating spaces. Unverified claims suggest that he did not financially compensate some of the women he engaged with and that his alleged objective was to knowingly transmit the virus. While some viral posts have cited comparisons to historical criminal cases involving deliberate HIV transmission, public health experts caution against spreading unverified figures until official investigations are concluded. The allegations have sparked outrage across African social media communities, with calls for enhanced border screening protocols, stronger international law enforcement cooperation, and improved HIV awareness and testing programs.
Legal and Public Health Implications
Under the laws of many countries, intentional transmission of HIV can constitute a serious criminal offence, including charges related to grievous bodily harm or attempted homicide. Legal analysts note that if substantiated, such actions could trigger cross-border criminal investigations and potential extradition proceedings. Public health authorities emphasize that HIV transmission requires specific biological conditions and that prevention measures—including consistent condom use, regular testing, and access to antiretroviral therapy (ART)—remain effective tools in reducing risk.
The World Health Organization has consistently advocated for strengthened HIV prevention strategies across sub-Saharan Africa, a region that continues to carry a disproportionate share of the global HIV burden. According to the UNAIDS, expanded access to testing and treatment remains critical to ending AIDS as a public health threat. Need for Verified Information
At the time of publication, no official statement has been released by Russian authorities confirming the suspect’s identity or addressing the allegations. Independent verification of the claim that over 700 women were infected has not yet been established through official public health records. Media analysts caution against amplifying unverified figures without documentary evidence, noting that misinformation surrounding HIV can exacerbate stigma and undermine public health interventions.
Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as investigations progress.
Sources:
BBC News; Al Jazeera; Reuters; The Nation (Kenya); Daily Graphic (Ghana); UNAIDS Reports; World Health Organization Publications.

About The Author

Afilawos Magana Sur

author

Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

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