BI probes Russian vlogger Vitaly detention claims

The Bureau of Immigration on Tuesday said it is looking into allegations made by controversial YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy regarding his detention in the Philippines.

Although the claims remain unverified and are based solely on Zdorovetskiy’s account, BI Commissioner Joel Viado said the Russian vlogger's allegations "nonetheless warrant internal scrutiny".

“Any allegation of misconduct or security lapses within BI facilities is taken seriously,” Viado said in a press statement.

“While these statements do not alter the legal basis of his deportation nor reverse the decision declaring him an undesirable alien, they underscore the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of existing rules," he added.

After his deportation, Zdorovetskiy took to social media to recount his experience in a Philippine detention facility.

In an Instagram post and a livestream with American online personality Adin Ross, the Russian vlogger claimed he filmed his experience after bribing jail guards and smuggling a mobile phone into his cell.

In response, the BI conducted raids last week at its detention facilities in Taguig City and Muntinlupa City. The operations yielded various contraband, including unauthorized cash, smartphones, gadgets, electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, knives, and other sharp objects.

Malacañang earlier said one BI warden resigned while five immigration personnel were removed from their posts following the incident.

“The Bureau maintains a strict no-contraband and no- unauthorized-use-of-gadget policy in all detention facilities,” Viado said.

 “Any personnel found to have violated regulations will face appropriate administrative and criminal sanctions,” he added.

Meanwhile, Viado said Zdorovetskiy’s deportation and permanent ban from reentering the Philippines remain in effect.

“The Bureau remains committed to maintaining humane detention conditions, institutional integrity, and accountability,” he said.

"We will continue to strengthen internal controls to prevent abuse and ensure that our facilities operate in accordance with the law," Viado added. —AOL, GMA Integrated News