Astrologer Arrested for Viral Earthquake Prediction in Myanmar

In a startling development, Myanmar authorities have apprehended a TikTok astrologer for inciting panic through a viral prediction of an impending earthquake. John Moe The shared his forecast on April 9, just weeks following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that claimed 3,500 lives and obliterated historic temples across the region.Citing concerns over public safety, Myanmar's information ministry stated that John Moe The was arrested for allegedly disseminating "false statements with the intention of causing public panic." His prediction forecast an earthquake affecting every city in Myanmar on April 21, capturing the attention of millions. However, experts assert that accurately predicting earthquakes is beyond current scientific capabilities, given the myriad factors at play in such natural disasters.In the now-viral video, which garnered over three million views, John Moe The warned viewers to take crucial belongings and vacate buildings at the onset of tremors. The video’s caption advised against staying in high-rise buildings during daytime. The impact of his prediction was palpable, as a Yangon resident disclosed that her neighbors were so convinced they chose to camp outside, fearing for their safety.John Moe The had previously boasted a TikTok account with over 300,000 followers, advertising predictions based on astrology and palmistry. Authorities carried out a raid at his home in Sagaing, central Myanmar, leading to his arrest. The Sagaing and Mandalay regions were particularly affected by the disastrous quake that struck on March 28, which led to a rare request for foreign aid from Myanmar's military government.The aftershocks of the earlier earthquake were felt as far away as Bangkok, where a construction site collapse resulted in multiple fatalities. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding misinformation and public safety in the wake of natural disasters in Myanmar.