The race is known for its hostility to foreigners, has killed people who have approached the island in the past – Indian authorities have been outraged by tourist
An American tourist was arrested in India, after attempting to visit North Sentinel, where the most secluded race in the world, the Sentinelers inhabited. Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, 24, allegedly traveled illegally to a refuge on the island and left behind a box of coca cola as a “offer” for the race, an act that caused the wrath of local Akos and International Organizations.
Polyakov arrived in the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar islands, Port Blair, on March 26, and three days later, used an improvised boat to cross 25 miles and reach the forbidden island. On Saturday morning, he reached the northeast coast of the island and used binoculars to examine the area for signs of life. Despite his efforts to draw the attention of tribe people, who live in isolation, he received no answer.
Left behind a box of coca cola and a coconut as an offer to the race
According to the Daily Mail, after spending about an hour trying to contact the natives via whistles, he stayed on the island for about five minutes, during which he captured videos, collected samples and left behind a box of coca coca and a coconut as an offer to the race. The tribe of Sentineles, known for its hostility to foreigners, has previously killed people who have approached the island.
Experts warn that Polyakov’s visit not only endangered his life but also the existence of the whole race. Sentineles have no immunity to common diseases, such as measles or influenza, which could cause breed extermination.
Police found him at Kurma Dera beach after his return, where he was arrested and seized his boat and a GoPro containing the video from his arrival on the island. Researchers are examining the exact moves of the tourist and his intention to visit the area, and are also investigating the people he contacted during his stay in the area.
Authorities have banned access to the island
Indian authorities have strictly banned access to North Sentinel island to protect the race from external threats. Caroline Pearce, director of the Survival International organization, condemned Polyakov’s energy as “reckless and stupid”, noting the dangers of the race from external diseases.
Polyakov remained in custody for further interrogation, while the US Embassy and the competent authorities have been informed of his arrest. This was not his first attempt to visit the island after trying again in 2024.
protothema.gr