Who Is Ko Tin Zaw Htwe? Know All LGBTQ+ TikToker Found Dead In Forest In Thailand In Mysterious Circumstances

Ko Tin Zaw Htwe Death: The death of TikTok creator Ko Tin Zaw Htwe, known online as Ayeyarwady Ma or Irrawaddy Ma, has shaken followers across Myanmar and Thailand. The 25-year-old was found dead on 20 January 2026 in a forested area in Thailand's Mae Sot district. Police in Mae Sot said the body was discovered under a large tree in Pha Thong village. Investigators noted clear signs of violence at the scene. The case has now become a major murder investigation, with officers looking at possible links to online contacts.

Who Is Ko Tin Zaw Htwe?

Ko Tin Zaw Htwe was a well-known TikTok star among Myanmar users. Living in the Thai border town of Mae Sot, Ko Tin Zaw Htwe gained over 900,000 followers through fashion clips, dance videos, and candid moments with everyday life.

Many viewers recognised Ko Tin Zaw Htwe as one of the few openly queer creators from Myanmar with such reach. The content appeared confident, colourful, and playful. Clips often showed stylish outfits and expressive dancing, sometimes featuring a partner, which followers said felt both brave and relatable.

What Happened To Ko Tin Zaw Htwe During His Last Night In Mae Sot?

Local reports in Mae Sot stated that on 19 January 2026, Ko Tin Zaw Htwe received a late-night distress call. After that call, Ko Tin Zaw Htwe reportedly left home alone and did not return. Police believe this contact may have drawn Ko Tin Zaw Htwe to a meeting.

Investigators suspect that someone who had interacted with Ko Tin Zaw Htwe online might have arranged the encounter. The following day, villagers in Pha Thong found the body in a grassy area. News of the discovery quickly spread across social platforms, especially TikTok, X, and Facebook.

Ko Tin Zaw Htwe Death Investigation Details

Officers reported that Ko Tin Zaw Htwe had severe head injuries and multiple stab wounds. A deep cut to the neck was also noted. At the scene, police collected beer bottles, snacks, and condoms, suggesting a planned meeting that ended in serious violence.

Thai authorities have arrested one suspect in connection with the killing and are searching for at least two more people. Investigators have not confirmed a clear motive. They are examining whether robbery, personal conflict, or targeted violence linked to identity may have played a role.

For many in Myanmar's LGBTQ+ community, Ko Tin Zaw Htwe represented more than social media fame. Visibility from a queer influencer living in Mae Sot held special meaning, in a region where open expression about identity often remains risky or heavily restricted.

Supporters repeatedly highlighted how Ko Tin Zaw Htwe's content inspired them. One user on X said, "He was not just a TikToker. He gave people confidence to be themselves." One user on X said, "I hope he is in a better place now. This is heartbreaking." Another user on X wrote, "A TikTok star found dead like this shows the dark side of internet fame."

Followers described how Ko Tin Zaw Htwe's dance videos and fashion clips once helped them cope with daily stress. One user on X said, "I used to watch his videos to feel happy. This news does not feel real." Many now share old posts as memorials.