From gruesome crimes to viral fame! Shocking reinvention of Indonesia's cannibal into social media influencer

Viral News: A man once notorious for his gruesome crimes in Indonesia has dramatically transformed his life, emerging as a social media influencer nearly two decades after his release from prison. Sumanto, infamously dubbed 'Indonesia's Hannibal Lecter,' was arrested in 2003 when authorities discovered the dismembered remains of a pensioner in his home in Purbalingga, Central Java. This shocking revelation came after he had reportedly consumed human flesh from at least three victims while working at a nearby sugar cane plantation.

The Dark Past

At the time of his arrest, Sumanto claimed that his cannibalistic tendencies were fueled by a belief in black magic, which he thought would grant him supernatural powers. His heinous acts sparked widespread horror and disgust across Indonesia, leading to a swift conviction. Despite the severity of his crimes, Sumanto served only three years in prison before being released back into society, where he faced immediate ostracism from his community.

A New Beginning

Fast forward to today, Sumanto has resurfaced under the moniker "Sumanto Gereng Reborn" on Instagram, where he has attracted over 18,000 followers. His content is a mix of motivational quotes, humorous videos, and light-hearted posts that resonate with a broader audience. In one of his recent posts, he enjoyed a local delicacy while encouraging followers to "leave funny comments like me," showcasing a stark contrast to his previous life.

The Journey to Redemption

Sumanto's reinvention began last year when he was invited to serve as a brand ambassador at an event in Banyumas. Initially met with skepticism, his social media presence quickly gained traction as he diversified his content. Dr. Mulyasari, head of the An-Nur Haji Supono Mustajab Foundation, noted that the initiative aimed to present a more relatable side of Sumanto: "From there, we created a social media account for Sumanto, and it turned out that the public response was good."

Changing Public Perception

Dr. Mulyasari emphasized that Sumanto's new persona reflects significant personal growth. “He is now better, funnier, kinder, and more humane,” she stated. While some criticism has emerged regarding his return to the public eye, the overall response has been largely positive. His posts now include everyday activities like eating satay and participating in community events, leaving many astonished by the transformation from his dark past.