He faces charges for theft, attempted theft, harassment, among others
Manila: Russian internet sensation Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, widely known for his outlandish pranks, is facing multiple serious charges here following his arrest in the Philippine capital.
Zdorovetskiy was arrested by authorities in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig on April 2, 2025, after allegedly causing public disturbance through erratic and aggressive behaviour.
Zdorovetskiy, 33, better known as VitalyzdTv, is a Russian-born YouTuber and internet content creator, with 10.2 million subscribers, and 1.5 billion views.
He is also known for his recent activity as a livestreamer on Kick.
During his arrest, which followed the issuance of a mission order from the Bureau of Immigration, authorities swooped in and arrested Zdorovetskiy who was dressed for the spotlight — in a black shirt, black pants, and an orange cap — though this time the script didn’t go quite his way.
Philippine police confirmed he is facing charges including unjust vexation, alarm and scandal, attempted theft, and violations related to unauthorised public filming.
But perhaps the most on-brand moment? His mugshot. Smiling wide like it was just another viral prank, Zdorovetskiy posed for the police camera as if it were a thumbnail for his next video.
This time, the consequences are no joke.
In a video shared by @LegalMindset on X, a calm yet firm police officer can be seen reading Zdorovetskiy his Miranda rights while the YouTuber stands, hands cuffed behind his back, looking a bit less mischievous than usual.
Disruptive behaviour
The arrest followed a series of disruptive incidents that reportedly included harassing passersby, attempting to grab a police officer’s service firearm, mocking security guards, and forcibly taking unauthorised photos and videos — all while vlogging.
Now, Zdorovetskiy is facing the justice system in the Philippines. The detained vlogger's videographer also faces charges, too, as per the Manila Times.
Philippine authorities said content creation cannot be used as a license to shame, hurt, or endanger others.
What’s he accused of?
It’s a lengthy rap sheet:
Vandalism,
Unjust vexation,
Burglary,
Theft,
Attempted theft,
Harassment,
Unauthorised filming,
Trying to grab a security guard’s gun.
What authorities say
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla says he could be looking at up to 24 years behind bars if convicted on all charges — though legal observers say a minimum of five years per count is more realistic.
Currently, he’s being held at the Bureau of Immigration’s Bicutan Detention Center in Taguig as an “undesirable alien.”
Deportation? On hold — at least until the court cases wrap up.
The long wait ahead
Legal experts predict he could be stuck in pre-trial detention for 2–3 years, with any sentencing not likely until 2027 or 2028.
As of now, there’s no trial date. Meanwhile, an online petition with 3,500+ signatures is calling for his social media ban over alleged cyberbullying.
Under the country’s Revised Penal Code, serious property-related crimes like theft and attempted theft can carry lengthy prison terms, particularly if multiple counts are involved.
Zdorovetskiy has previously faced legal trouble in other countries for stunts and pranks that crossed legal or ethical lines.
This is his first known arrest in Southeast Asia.
Even Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reacted to the incident, calling the streamer “crazy” after watching footage of the behaviour that led to his arrest.
Zdorovetskiy remains in custody while legal proceedings move forward. Officials have not ruled out additional charges as probe continues.
The case has sparked broader conversations around the limits of online content creation and the need for accountability, especially when creators film in public spaces.
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