A Myanmar astrologer has been arrested for creating panic by predicting a new earthquake in a viral TikTok video. The video, which garnered over 3 million views, caused widespread fear across Myanmar, just weeks after a devastating earthquake struck the country.
Astrologer’s Viral Earthquake Prediction Sparks Panic
John Moe The, the astrologer behind the viral TikTok video, posted his prediction on April 9, warning that an earthquake would hit every city in Myanmar on April 21. This prediction came just two weeks after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake killed over 3,500 people and destroyed centuries-old temples in the Southeast Asian nation.
Arrest for False Statements and Public Panic
Myanmar’s information ministry announced that John Moe The was arrested on April 22 for making “false statements with the intention of causing public panic.” Experts have clarified that earthquakes cannot be predicted, as they are complex natural events influenced by numerous unpredictable factors.
In his video, John Moe The urged viewers to “take important things with you and run away from buildings during the shaking,” and to “avoid staying in tall buildings during the day.” His TikTok account, which had over 300,000 followers, was known for making astrology-based predictions and palmistry readings.
Public Reaction to the Earthquake Prediction
Many Myanmar residents, particularly in Yangon, believed the prediction, with some even leaving their homes and camping outside on April 21, fearing the forecasted earthquake. This widespread fear illustrates the powerful impact of social media platforms like TikTok on shaping public behavior, especially in times of crisis.
Devastating Earthquake in March and Aftermath
The arrest comes on the heels of the deadly March 28 earthquake in Myanmar, which caused massive destruction in the Mandalay and Sagaing regions. In addition to the thousands of lives lost, the earthquake also triggered an unusual request for foreign aid from Myanmar’s military junta.
The quake was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, where a building collapse at a construction site resulted in numerous fatalities.
Astrology and the Rise of Social Media Influence
John Moe The’s TikTok channel, now deactivated, was part of a growing trend of astrology influencers using platforms like TikTok to share predictions about natural disasters, personal fortunes, and world events. While astrology and palmistry remain popular in some parts of the world, experts emphasize the dangers of baseless predictions, especially when they contribute to public panic during natural disasters.
