Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy has been arrested in the Philippines and will stay in custody as he faces multiple criminal charges linked to his controversial livestreams.
Arrested in Pasay City Hotel
The arrest happened at a hotel in Pasay City after the Bureau of Immigration issued a mission order, calling him an “undesirable” foreigner.
Philippine Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that Zdorovetskiy would not be deported yet. Instead, he will be tried under Philippine law for the actions seen in videos widely shared online.
“We will not deport him. He will be held accountable under the law here in the Philippines,” Remulla said.
Criminal Charges Filed Against Vitaly Zdorovetskiy
The charges against Vitaly include:
- Unjust vexation
- Alarm and scandal
- Attempted theft
Pranks Caught on Camera
Police in Metro Manila released footage showing Vitaly Zdorovetskiy allegedly harassing people in public places.
Some videos reportedly show:
- Confronting a security guard and an elderly woman in Bonifacio Global City
- Jumping onto a moving jeepney
- Making false negative reviews about local businesses
- Stealing minor items like an electric fan and a tricycle, later abandoned on the street
Cameraman Also Under Investigation
Authorities are also looking for Zdorovetskiy’s Filipino cameraman, who allegedly helped him film the prank videos. Police say he could also face charges for his involvement.
No Special Treatment
Secretary Remulla said the case is a strong message that foreigners will be held responsible if they break the law in the Philippines.
“This is an example that we are serious, in our own country. We will not let them belittle us,” he added.
Detained in Muntinlupa
For now, Vitaly is being held at the Bureau of Immigration detention facility in Muntinlupa, awaiting his court trial.
A Serious Turn for a Prankster
Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who has millions of followers for his wild prank videos, now faces serious legal consequences in the Philippines — a reminder that not all content comes without a cost.