British national Maria Shchetinina (40) has been arrested by the tourist police on charges of teaching ‘sex yoga’ on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan in Thailand on 6 November. The woman, known as ‘Maria Sky’ in social media was conducting classes on tantric yoga and ‘sacred sexuality’ with foreign couples.
The police launched a special operation after news of these sessions, which were regularly organized behind a local restaurant, reached the police. The investigation revealed that she was working as a yoga teacher illegally, which is outside the terms of her work permit.
Raid and Arrest
The police said that Maria was conducting yoga exercises with tourists that day when the raid was suddenly carried out. Then, after checking her passport and work plan, it was found that she had been allowed to work as a customer relations manager in an accommodation establishment.
Therefore, teaching yoga clearly falls under the scope of illegal work. In addition, the police seized advertising flyers, class notes, brochures and tickets from her. They claim that locals also complained after seeing the “excessively provocative” posts on social media.
Income Information for Classes
The investigation revealed that Maria used to conduct basic classes for 400 baht (about S$16) per student and advanced courses for couples for up to 7,440 baht (about S$303). These sessions taught tantric meditation, massage and sexual yoga poses.
According to the police, such activities damage the island’s tourism image. It is worth noting that a Polish YouTuber was arrested on the same charges in March this year.
Online Reaction
After the video and news of the arrest went viral, netizens have given mixed reactions. Some joked that perhaps some police officers had collected evidence by conducting many classes under the pretext of a secret investigation. Others commented that Maria was very popular and her classes would have piqued the interest of many tourists.
On the other hand, some expressed surprise and said that such classes would be more acceptable in other countries than Thailand. Some joked that they might have to change their vacation plans after this incident.
Concerns about Tourism Image
Authorities say that such “sex-related” classes run by foreigners are at odds with the peaceful and spiritual image of Koh Phangan. The island has long been known for its hippie culture, yoga retreats and beach-based tourism. Therefore, such controversial classes have spread nationwide criticism. Police have again warned tourists that legal action will be taken if they engage in any illegal activities.
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