Indonesian police expose Malaysian influencer's fake disappearance
7 Feb - Controversial influencers Ammar Nazhan and Arasz Abdullah are in hot water after the Indonesian police exposed the fabricated disappearance story orchestrated by them. The Malaysian influencers had falsely claimed their fellow content creator Eyka had gone missing during a paranormal activity.
The hoax unraveled when Panyileukan Police Chief, Kompol Kurnia, confirmed on 6 February through Kumparan News that the entire incident was staged. "Ammar and Arasz's statement explained that they made a live broadcast at Bukit Embah Garut RT 05, RW 09, Cisurupan Village, Cibiru District, Bandung City last Sunday via TikTok with a sensational story about 'Malaysian influencers (Eyka) is missing for 48 hours after creating paranormal content'," Kurnia revealed. "The sensational content was created solely to increase the number of views and followers."
The controversy began earlier this week when Ammar claimed that Eyka, whose real name is Nur Syafiqah, had been missing for three days during a paranormal activity. He further alleged that a search operation involving his team, local villagers, police, and military was underway. The dramatic narrative continued when Arasz later announced that Eyka had been found and was receiving treatment.
Police Chief Kurnia emphasised the serious nature of their actions, stating, "They are unaware that Indonesian law imposes strict penalties on those who spread fake news. The content they created also does not have the permission of the authorities even though it has been approved by the local regional manager."
Following the police investigation, both influencers have issued apologies and provided written statements and video confessions promising not to repeat such actions.
The latest development from the Indonesian police has now sparked backlash among Malaysian netizens against Ammar and his team for yet another cheap gimmick. One netizen posted, "I hope the whole team would go missing instead after getting eaten by tigers and bears."
"They should arrest him and put him in Indonesian jail. No need to come back," said another.
(Photo Source: Ammar IG)