By A 24-year-old American tourist, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, was arrested in India after illegally entering North Sentinel Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, in an attempt to contact the isolated Sentinelese tribe. This incident occurred on March 30, 2025, following reports from locals who saw Polyakov taking a boat to the island.
Attempt to Contact the Sentinelese Tribe
Polyakov, an influencer known for extreme travel experiences, traveled for nine hours in a small rubber dinghy with an outboard motor to reach the island. Upon arrival, he briefly landed on the shore, where he left offerings, including a can of Coke and a coconut. He filmed the entire experience, recording footage and collecting sand samples before leaving.
The Sentinelese tribe, one of the world’s most isolated communities, has minimal contact with outsiders and actively resists outside interference. To protect their way of life, the Indian government enforces strict regulations banning access to the island.
Legal Consequences for Unauthorized Entry
Polyakov now faces charges under the Foreigners Act, 1946, for unauthorized entry into a tribal reserve. He also violated the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956, which prohibits entry into protected tribal areas. Authorities reviewed footage from Polyakov’s GoPro camera, which confirmed his entry into the restricted island. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are questioning hotel staff in Port Blair where he stayed.
Protecting Isolated Tribes
This incident follows a series of tragic events involving the Sentinelese. In 2018, American missionary John Allen Chau was killed by the tribe after attempting to preach Christianity. In 2006, two Indian fishermen were also killed when they accidentally drifted to the island. These events led to the establishment of a strict three-mile exclusion zone around North Sentinel Island, enforced by the Indian Navy to protect the tribe.
Global Implications and Legal Protection
Polyakov’s arrest highlights the legal and ethical complexities surrounding contact with isolated tribes. The Indian government aims to protect the Sentinelese from disease and cultural disruption. Authorities have informed the US embassy, and investigations into Polyakov’s activities are continuing.
India remains committed to preserving the unique communities on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, ensuring they remain untouched by outside influence.
