US Citizen Arrested for Illegally Entering North Sentinel Island in Andaman and Nicobar
A 24-year-old US citizen, identified as Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, has been arrested for allegedly illegally entering the restricted tribal reserve of North Sentinel Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. His arrest has sparked renewed discussions on the protection of indigenous tribes and the legal ramifications of unauthorized access to the island.
Incident Details
Polyakov, who arrived in Port Blair on March 26, 2025, reportedly attempted to reach North Sentinel Island from Kurmadera Beach in the early hours of March 30. According to police reports, he carried a coconut and a can of Coca-Cola as offerings for the Sentinelese tribe—a highly reclusive and protected indigenous group known for resisting contact with the outside world.
Authorities state that Polyakov reached the northeastern shore of the island around 10 AM and remained offshore for nearly an hour. He reportedly blew a whistle in an attempt to attract the attention of the Sentinelese but saw no response. He then stepped onto the island for about five minutes, left the offerings, collected sand samples, recorded a video, and promptly left the area.
By 1 PM, Polyakov had started his return journey, and by 7 PM, he was spotted by local fishermen as he arrived back at Kurmadera Beach. His movements raised suspicion, prompting an investigation by law enforcement authorities.
Legal Action and Investigation
The Crime Investigation Department (CID) arrested Polyakov on April 1, 2025, and an FIR was filed under the Foreigners Act, 1946, along with provisions from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Amendment Regulation, 2012.
According to law enforcement sources, Pronab Sircar, a tribal welfare officer in Tirur, lodged the complaint, which led to Polyakov’s arrest. Camera footage recovered from Polyakov confirmed his unauthorized landing on North Sentinel Island.
The Director General of Police (DGP HS Dhaliwal) stated that further inquiries were underway to determine Polyakov’s motives and whether he had external assistance. The Ministry of Home Affairs was immediately informed, and the US Embassy was notified about the arrest.
Previous Attempts and Background
Investigations have revealed that this was not Polyakov’s first attempt to reach North Sentinel Island. Reports indicate that he had visited the Andaman and Nicobar Islands twice before:
- October 2024: Polyakov attempted to reach North Sentinel Island using an inflatable kayak but was prevented by hotel staff before he could embark on his journey.
- January 2025: He returned to the Andaman Islands, where he allegedly tried to procure a motor for his boat. During this visit, he illegally videographed the Jarawa tribe, another protected indigenous community, before leaving on January 27.
The Sentinelese and Legal Restrictions
The Sentinelese tribe, one of the last uncontacted tribes in the world, resides on North Sentinel Island. They have historically resisted outside contact, with past encounters often resulting in hostile responses. The Indian government has strictly prohibited any approach to the island under the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Act to protect both the Sentinelese and outsiders from potential harm.
In 2018, American missionary John Allen Chau was killed by the Sentinelese after illegally attempting to enter North Sentinel Island. His death highlighted the dangers and ethical concerns surrounding unpermitted visits to the island.
Current Developments and Legal Proceedings
Polyakov is currently in police custody as authorities continue their investigation. Officials are examining his activities and his intentions behind trying to contact the Sentinelese despite international warnings and legal prohibitions. Further details are expected as the case unfolds.
This incident has reignited discussions on preserving indigenous cultures, legal enforcement, and the ethical responsibilities of travelers. The authorities have reinforced that any attempt to trespass into restricted tribal areas is a serious offense, carrying severe legal consequences.
As the case proceeds, more clarity is expected regarding Polyakov’s motivations and potential legal repercussions, while Indian authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting North Sentinel Island and its indigenous inhabitants.
