Police Arrest Creator of AI-Generated 'Pocong' Images in Palembang

Personnel from the Gandus Sector Police, Palembang, South Sumatra, have detained a content creator responsible for spreading AI-manipulated images of a ‘pocong’ figure, which had caused significant concern among residents in the Gandus District.

Gandus Police Chief, AKP I Made Budi Harta, stated that the AI-generated photos had previously gone viral on social media, prompting police to launch a search for the perpetrator after the images triggered various speculations among the public. “We have secured the creator of the viral content today. Following examination and clarification, the individual admitted that the circulating pocong photos were the result of edits using AI technology,” said Made in Palembang on Monday (2/6).

He added that the police have identified the perpetrator, identified by the initials F, alias E (24), an entrepreneur from Palembang. Officers are conducting intensive interrogations at the Gandus Police Headquarters to determine the primary motive behind the creation of the sensationalist content. As of now, the police have not officially named F as a suspect as the investigation is ongoing.

According to Made, the massive spread of the images on social media led many residents to believe the photos depicted a real event. The manipulated images were shared repeatedly across various digital chat groups, causing panic to spread rapidly. To prevent the negative impact of similar hoaxes, Made urged the public to be more prudent and careful when filtering visual information. He emphasised the importance of verifying data before sharing content on social media to avoid inciting public disorder.

Meanwhile, the Gandus District Head, Jufriansyah, explained that the district authorities had requested residents to remain calm from the outset. He noted that the phenomenon of AI-based hoaxes is increasingly occurring in various other regions. Jufriansyah also called upon content creators in Palembang to utilise technological advancements positively, expressing hope that creators would produce educational and beneficial works rather than creating fear within the community.