Controversial Russian YouTuber in BJMP custody

Russian-American vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy —Photo: Richard Reyes

MANILA, Philippines — Russian national and controversial YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) on June 11 and will remain there until the cases against him are resolved, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Monday.

He will then be returned to the BI for deportation. Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said that although Zdorovetskiy had asked to be released on bail, the BI was not inclined to grant it.

READ: No deportation yet for Russian YouTuber, he’ll face raps in PH first

“Foreign nationals who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws must face the consequences. The bureau is resolute: we will not allow our deportation process to be undermined by publicity tactics or legal maneuvering. No special treatment will be given,” Viado said.

Zdorovetskiy, 33, was arrested in April after a series of viral videos showed him harassing individuals in Taguig City. The Philippine National Police earlier said that charges of unjust vexation were filed against him. —Jane Bautista