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January 22, 2026 | 1:56pm
21-year-old Russian vlogger Nikita Chekhov when he was arrested by the Bureau of Immigration on January 15.
Bureau of Immigration / Released
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration has arrested a Russian vlogger after he posted viral videos threatening to deliberately spread HIV while staying in the Philippines.
Immigration authorities said Nikita Chekhov, 21, was arrested inside a condominium building in Quezon City, according to a statement released on Thursday, January 22.
The bureau said Chekhov, a native of Taganrog, Russia, arrived in the Philippines as a tourist on January 15 from Shanghai, China.
Shortly after his arrival, Chekhov posted videos filmed at Bonifacio High Street in Taguig, claiming he intended to spread HIV during his stay in the country.
Immigration officials said the content triggered widespread alarm online, prompting authorities to act.
Authorities believe the videos were intended as "rage bait," or content meant to provoke outrage for online engagement, but said the posts nonetheless caused fear among residents and netizens.
"These so-called rage-bait videos irresponsibly cause fear and panic among the public," Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado said.
"Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to spread alarm, disrespect our people, or abuse our hospitality are not welcome and will face deportation," Viado added.
Similar enforcement actions
The arrest follows recent enforcement actions against foreign content creators accused of disruptive or harmful behavior.
Earlier this month, Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was deported after being declared an undesirable alien for acts committed in Taguig.
Authorities also arrested Estonian YouTuber Siim Roosipuu, who was declared persona non grata in Dumaguete City for posting content authorities described as disrespectful and involving minors.
Immigration officials said investigations into Chekhov’s case are ongoing, including possible deportation proceedings.
