US Tourist Arrested for Illegal Landing on Restricted Indian Island

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old US tourist, was arrested for illegally landing on North Sentinel Island, home to the uncontacted Sentinelese tribe. Banned from approaching within five kilometers to protect indigenous people, he made multiple attempts to contact the tribe. His breach of law resulted in interrogation and a review of his camera footage, revealing his actions during the incident.

Indian police arrested a 24-year-old US tourist, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, for illegally landing on North Sentinel Island, home to the uncontacted Sentinelese tribe. He attempted to engage with this isolated group, thought to number only about 150 individuals, while carrying a coconut and a can of Diet Coke. Foreigners are prohibited from venturing within five kilometers of the island to protect the tribe from outside diseases and preserve their traditional way of life.

After his arrest, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands police chief, HGS Dhaliwal, stated that Polyakov was presented in local court and placed on a three-day remand for interrogation. Polyakov reportedly blew a whistle off the island to draw the tribe’s attention before briefly landing, leaving offerings, and recording videos. Evidence from his GoPro camera confirmed his illegal entry onto the island.

Polyakov had attempted to visit the island twice before—first in October 2024 with an inflatable kayak, which was thwarted by hotel staff, and later in January 2025. He used a motorized inflatable boat to navigate the 35 kilometers of open sea for his latest attempt. The Sentinelese community is known for their isolation and hostility towards outsiders, as evidenced by past incidents, including the killing of missionary John Allen Chau in 2018.

Authorities in India have taken a strong stance against unauthorized visits to North Sentinel Island, prosecuting locals who facilitate such incursions. They are also investigating any potential accomplices who may have aided Polyakov. The Andaman Islands are strategically important for India, with plans for substantial investment to bolster military infrastructure in the region.

The arrest of Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov highlights the ongoing efforts to protect the Sentinelese tribe and their untouched way of life. Indian laws strictly prohibit access to North Sentinel Island to safeguard its inhabitants from diseases and intrusion. The incident raises awareness about the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and the consequences of violating established regulations.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com