Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy has been arrested in the Philippines and will remain in custody as he faces multiple criminal charges for controversial behaviour during livestreams. Authorities confirmed on Monday that deportation proceedings are suspended while legal actions proceed.
Zdorovetskiy was detained at a hotel in Pasay City following a mission order issued by the Bureau of Immigration, which labelled him an “undesirable” foreign national. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated the YouTuber would be held accountable under Philippine law for actions captured on video and shared widely online.
The charges include unjust vexation, alarm and scandal, and attempted theft. Metro Manila police presented footage showing Zdorovetskiy allegedly harassing Filipino citizens in public spaces.
One clip reportedly shows him confronting a security guard and an elderly woman in Bonifacio Global City. Other videos depict him jumping onto a moving jeepney, fabricating negative reviews about local businesses, and stealing minor items such as an electric fan and a tricycle, later abandoned on the street.
“He will remain there for now in the Bureau of Immigration detention facility in Muntinlupa while he awaits his trial here,” Remulla confirmed. “We will not deport him. He will be held accountable under the law here in the Philippines.”
Authorities are also pursuing Zdorovetskiy’s local cameraman, believed to be Filipino, who allegedly assisted in the livestream stunts. Police say he may also face charges.
“This is an example that we are serious, in our own country. We will not let them belittle us,” Remulla said.
Zdorovetskiy, known globally for his prank content, is now facing serious legal consequences in the Philippines.
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