Russian Baby Tattoo Controversy: Parents Claim It Was a Fake Stunt for Apartment Prize

A Russian couple is under investigation for a viral video showing their baby getting a tattoo. The distressing clip was submitted to an online contest to win an apartment. The parents have since claimed the entire act was a fake.

They told Russian media the tattoo was drawn with a pen, not a needle. The streamer behind the controversial contest has now banned entries featuring children.

Outrage Erupts Over Disturbing Video Submission

The video was posted on TikTok by the unidentified parents. It shows their one-year-old child crying while an adult appears to tattoo its arm. According to The Sun, the couple submitted this clip to a giveaway hosted by Belarusian streamer Mellstroy.

The contest promised an apartment worth $60,000. The prize was for the most outrageous video submission. This incentive led to the couple’s desperate attempt for a new home.

The mother explained their motives in the video itself. She said they had lived in rented accommodation for three years. The family was deep in debt and saw the contest as their only hope.

Parents Insist Tattoo Was a Pretend Act

Following intense online backlash, the couple spoke to the Russian newspaper Izvestia. They completely denied harming their child. The parents insisted the viral video was a staged stunt.

The mother clarified they used a simple black gel pen. She stated they never used tattoo machines or syringes. The couple expressed surprise that anyone believed the tattoo was real.

Authorities have launched a formal probe into the incident. Irina Volk, a spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, confirmed the investigation. Juvenile unit employees will now regularly check the family’s living conditions.

Streamer Changes Contest Rules After Backlash

The public outrage forced the contest organizer, Mellstroy, to react. He publicly announced a major rule change for his giveaway. The streamer declared that videos featuring children would no longer be accepted.

This incident highlights the extreme lengths people will go for online fame and prizes. Mellstroy’s contest reportedly inspired other disturbing acts from participants. The focus has now shifted to the ethics of such dangerous online challenges.

The investigation into the Russian baby tattoo controversy continues. The parents’ claims are being verified by law enforcement. This shocking event underscores the severe consequences of pursuing viral notoriety.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why did the Russian couple make the tattoo video?

They created the video to enter an online contest. The winner was promised a free apartment worth $60,000. The couple claimed they were desperate to escape debt and rented housing.

Was the baby actually tattooed?

The parents insist the tattoo was fake. They told Izvestia newspaper they used a black gel pen. They never used a real tattoo needle on the child.

What action are authorities taking?

Russian authorities have opened an investigation. Officials from the juvenile unit will check on the family’s welfare. The living conditions of the child are now under scrutiny.

How did the streamer respond to the backlash?

The streamer, Mellstroy, changed the contest rules. He publicly banned all video entries that feature children. This was a direct response to the widespread outrage.

Where was the controversial video first shared?

The video was initially posted on the social media platform TikTok. It quickly spread from there, causing global concern. The clip showed the baby crying during the fake tattooing process.

Trusted Sources: The Sun, Izvestia, People, Reuters (for general journalistic standards)