Authorities have arrested a TikTok astrologer for spreading panic by predicting another strong earthquake in the aftermath of last month’s tremor, state media said.
John Moe The, who has a TikTok following of more than 300,000, forecast on April 9 that a “very strong” quake would hit “every city in Myanmar” in 12 days’ time.
“People should not stay in tall buildings during the day,” said the caption on his video viewed 3.3 million times.
“Take important things with you and run away from buildings during the shaking.”
Last month’s earthquake in Myanmar’s central belt killed more than 3,700 and has left 60,000 living in tent encampments, according to the UN, many too fearful to return home as aftershocks continue.
The 21-year-old was arrested in a morning raid on his home in Monywa city on Tuesday, according to a statement by Myanmar’s military government published in state media on Thursday.
“We got a tip-off about fake news being spread through a TikTok account that a severe earthquake will hit,” it said.
“Action will be taken effectively against him according to the law. Likewise, we will also take action effectively against those who write or spread or share fake news.”
Yangon resident Nan Nan said she had not believed the social media post, but many neighbours had. Most of my neighbours dared not to stay in their apartments and lived out on the street on that day,” the 35-year-old said.
“My friend even hired a small house outside Yangon in preparation.” — AFP
