Man permanently banned from social media after rooftop parachute stunt in China

A 23-year-old man in China has been placed under administrative detention and permanently banned from social media after parachuting from a high-rise apartment rooftop in a stunt designed to generate online engagement.

Police in the Chenghua District of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, announced the detention of the man, identified as Ren Moumou after he jumped from the residential tower at approximately 11 p.m. on June 30 to drive traffic to his online profile, according to Jimu News and China National Radio.

Ren Moumou gets ready to parachute from the rooftop of a high-rise residential building in Chenghua District in a still image from a video posted on his social media.

Ren uploaded a video of the jump on July 1 to his account, which boasted roughly 60,000 followers.

Known online by the nickname "Parachuting Coach Kakashi," Ren had a history of such acts, having previously posted a video of himself parachuting from another apartment rooftop in May 2024.

While he claimed to be a professional parachuting instructor, police confirmed to HK01 that he does not hold a valid license.

Police stated that his most recent stunt seriously disrupted public order and endangered community safety.

Under China's Public Security Administration Punishments Law, individuals found guilty of such administrative violations can be detained for up to 15 days.

The South China Morning Post reported that Ren's social media presence has been permanently terminated as part of his penalty.

Ren Moumou parachutes from the rooftop of a high-rise residential building in Chenghua District as captured from a video posted on his social media.

Authorities emphasized that parachuting is strictly regulated in China. The activity requires prior approval from relevant agencies and is only permitted at designated locations. Unauthorized jumps from public structures, particularly high-rise buildings in urban centers or bridges, are strictly prohibited.

Police warned that anyone caught illegally parachuting from residential buildings or in densely populated areas will face severe legal consequences, and actions that constitute a criminal offense will result in prosecution.