YouTuber Arrested for Attempting Contact With Isolated Tribe in India

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old YouTuber from Arizona, was arrested by Indian police for attempting to contact the isolated Sentinelese tribe on North Sentinel Island, a restricted territory. On March 29, he illegally landed on the island, leaving behind a can of Diet Coke and a coconut as offerings while attempting to film the encounter with a GoPro camera. His actions are in violation of Indian laws designed to protect the tribe, which has remained isolated for thousands of years and is known for its aggressive defense against outsiders. Polyakov faces serious charges that could lead to a five-year prison sentence, with a court appearance scheduled for April 17. The U.S. State Department is aware of the situation but has not provided further comments. This incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding contact with the Sentinelese, following previous fatal encounters with outsiders.