YouTuber “AlbertoHRom” is facing legal challenges after reportedly teaching millions of viewers how to make bombs and weapons. Authorities detained the 27-year-old student of industrial engineering as part of “Operation Sputnik” in Castro Urdiales, Cantabria.

Dangerous explosive tutorials draw police attention

With more than 1.3 million subscribers, Alberto rose to fame by making viral videos about the chemistry of explosives like gunpowder and thermite. His content, according to the Guardia Civil, went beyond education and constituted a risk to public safety.

He also allegedly kept more than 20 kilograms of explosive materials in his workshop, which was situated on a family farm close to residential and wooded areas. Officials warned that there is a significant chance of accidental explosions.

Previous incidents linked to his content

This isn’t the first time his videos have raised alarms. In 2022, a viewer in Pontevedra was arrested and sentenced to prison for using his videos to make illegal bombs. Authorities fear that such content might support terrorist organizations or criminal organizations.

Alberto defends his intentions

In a YouTube video, Alberto dismissed the accusations, stating that his goal was entertainment and education. “I was super chill with [the police], and they knew I wasn’t a terrorist,” he stated. He called the accusations “unfair” and clarified that his videos were not detailed instructions for engaging in illegal activities.

The YouTuber is currently being charged with risking public safety and manufacturing explosives illegally. His critics highlight the risks that his videos potentially present, while his fans rally online with hashtags like #FreeHRom. Since then, authorities have taken down his channel, although some of his videos are still available on other websites.

Image courtesy: Alberto R. H.