In a controversial incident, John Moe The, a TikTok astrologer, was arrested by Myanmar authorities for predicting a devastating earthquake that caused widespread fear among residents, just weeks after a catastrophic quake had already struck the region.
Astrologer Arrested for Viral Earthquake Prediction in Myanmar
Astrologer Arrested for Viral Earthquake Prediction in Myanmar
A TikTok astrologer faces legal repercussions after his viral prediction of an impending earthquake incited public panic in Myanmar.
In a TikTok video that gained over three million views, John Moe The declared that an earthquake would "hit every city in Myanmar" on April 21, following a deadly magnitude 7.7 quake that killed 3,500 people and damaged historic temples. On Tuesday, he was apprehended for allegedly making "false statements with the intention of causing public panic," according to Myanmar's information ministry.
Experts have consistently maintained that earthquake predictions are impossible due to their complex nature, yet the severity of his predictions led many, including residents of Yangon, to heed his warnings. Some even camped outside, choosing to avoid staying in tall buildings in anticipation of the forecasted disaster.
John Moe The's TikTok account, which boasted over 300,000 followers, focused on astrology and palmistry but has since been taken down. He was arrested during a raid on his home in Sagaing, a region severely affected by a previous earthquake that had compelled the Myanmar junta to seek foreign aid.
Experts have consistently maintained that earthquake predictions are impossible due to their complex nature, yet the severity of his predictions led many, including residents of Yangon, to heed his warnings. Some even camped outside, choosing to avoid staying in tall buildings in anticipation of the forecasted disaster.
John Moe The's TikTok account, which boasted over 300,000 followers, focused on astrology and palmistry but has since been taken down. He was arrested during a raid on his home in Sagaing, a region severely affected by a previous earthquake that had compelled the Myanmar junta to seek foreign aid.
