American YouTuber Detained for Trespassing on Restricted Indian Island

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old American YouTuber, was arrested for illegally visiting North Sentinel Island in India. He aimed to contact the Sentinelese tribe but faces legal action due to breaching laws that protect the reclusive tribe and restrict access to the island. Polyakov will appear in court on April 29 after initially trespassing on March 31.

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old American YouTuber, remains in custody after visiting North Sentinel Island, a forbidden area in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with intentions to connect with the Sentinelese tribe. His arrest occurred on March 31, and he is scheduled for a court appearance in Port Blair on April 29, according to police reports.

Authorities assert that Polyakov’s actions constitute a breach of Indian law, which prohibits any visitor from approaching within three miles of the island. This law protects the isolated Sentinelese tribe, which has lived untouched for thousands of years and reacts violently to outsiders. A senior police officer expressed concerns regarding the potential jeopardy to the tribe’s survival due to such encounters.

Polyakov faces possible legal penalties, including up to five years in prison and fines. Historical incidents involving trespassers include the 2018 killing of an American missionary and assaults on fishermen who unintentionally reached the island. Consequently, such laws exist to safeguard both the tribe and visitors.

The young YouTuber had reportedly researched sea conditions prior to his visit and attempted to attract the tribe’s attention by blowing a whistle, but received no response. After failing to establish contact, he left a Diet Coke can and a coconut as an offering, recorded the island, and collected sand samples.

Following his return to the boat, he was apprehended by local fishermen who reported his activity to the authorities. An official from the U.S. consulate visited Polyakov, and the embassy has yet to provide updates on the situation or confirm the visit.

The case of Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov underscores the serious implications of violating laws protecting isolated tribes. His planned encounter with the Sentinelese tribe highlights both cultural preservation concerns and the potential risks posed by outsiders. Polyakov’s current situation exemplifies the strict enforcement of regulations surrounding North Sentinel Island to safeguard its inhabitants.

Original Source: www.local10.com