Viral 'Pocong' carrying machete during Siak power outage confirmed as AI-generated hoax by high school student

A viral photo post claiming a ‘Pocong’ appeared during a power outage in Siak regency, Riau, prompted police intervention. Upon investigation, the image was revealed to be an AI-generated creation by a high school student. The photo initially spread via WhatsApp group in Desa Makmur SP6, Siak, Riau, coinciding with a power cut on Sunday, 24 May 2026. The image depicted a ‘Pocong’ carrying a machete and approaching residents’ homes, causing panic among residents of Pangkalan Kerinci subdistrict. Pangkalan Kerinci police station investigated the viral photo and found it was first disseminated by RH (16), a high school student from Siak regency. ‘We verified the matter with the student, who admitted creating the AI-generated image as a joke and sent it to friends,’ saidPolice Chief AKp Shilton in a statement on Thursday, 28 May 2026. Shilton added that preventive measures were taken, including a clarificatory video, a written statement, and monitoring of the individual. ‘We urge the public not to readily believe or disseminate unverified information, especially that which incites public unrest,’ he added. He also reminded that spreading hoaxes carries legal penalties under applicable laws.