Controversial Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who gained notoriety for harassing a security guard and bystanders in Bonifacio Global City, was returned to the Bureau of Immigration’s custody on Wednesday after posting bail.
Zdorovetskiy, widely known for his provocative prank videos, had been detained at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility starting June 11 following local charges of unjust vexation filed before the Taguig Regional Trial Court Branch 153.
Despite being granted bail for the said case, he was transferred back to the Bureau of Immigration Warden Facility (BIWF) in Camp Bagong Diwa. Authorities clarified that his release on bail does not exempt him from further legal processes.
“He will not be allowed to roam around as he is already seen as an undesirable alien,” Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said in an ABS-CBN News report, adding, “Justice will be served to the fullest extent.”
Zdorovetskiy is currently facing three counts of unjust vexation. If convicted, he could face a jail term of up to 18 months, in addition to possible deportation.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), however, confirmed that deportation proceedings are on hold, as both Russia—his country of origin—and the United States—where he holds a green card—have refused to take him back. “Neither of the two countries want to receive him,” said DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
Further public backlash continues online, with a Change.org petition accusing the vlogger of verbally abusing a surfing instructor in Boracay.
Meanwhile, Zdorovetskiy’s legal counsel stated that the vlogger has shown signs of reflection during his two-month detention, and is prepared to apologize to those he offended, should he be released.
