MANILA — Russian prank YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy has been arrested in the Philippines and will face criminal charges in the country rather than being deported immediately, Philippine authorities confirmed Monday.
Zdorovetskiy was apprehended on April 3 at a hotel in Pasay City following the issuance of a mission order by the Bureau of Immigration, which labeled him an “undesirable alien” after a series of controversial livestreams.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, addressing the media, said the 32-year-old would remain in detention at the Bureau of Immigration facility in Muntinlupa while awaiting trial. “We will not deport him. He will be held accountable under the law here in the Philippines,” Remulla said.
Harassment caught on camera
According to Metro Manila police, Zdorovetskiy is facing several charges, including unjust vexation, alarm and scandal, and attempted theft. Authorities say his livestreams showed him harassing locals in public spaces, stealing small items, and engaging in disruptive behavior across various parts of Manila.
Footage presented during a press briefing showed Zdorovetskiy confronting a security guard and an elderly woman in Bonifacio Global City, jumping onto a moving jeepney, and taking objects such as an electric fan from a restaurant and a tricycle, which he later abandoned.
“The time when foreigners could just disrespect Filipinos is over,” Remulla said. “We are serious about protecting our people. We will not allow anyone to belittle us in our own country.”
Probe into local accomplices underway
Authorities are also investigating Zdorovetskiy’s cameraman, believed to be Filipino, who reportedly helped film and coordinate the incidents. “Zdorovetskiy will undergo tactical interrogation so we can identify his local accomplices,” Remulla added.
Police say the unidentified cameraman will also face charges for his involvement in the alleged offenses. A search is underway to locate him.
The YouTuber, known for his outrageous public pranks and stunts, has faced legal trouble in other countries before. However, Philippine authorities have emphasized that this time, accountability will be demanded on local soil.