Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old American YouTuber and self-proclaimed adventurer, has been arrested by Indian authorities for illegally entering North Sentinel Island—one of the world’s most isolated and heavily protected places.

The arrest took place on March 29, 2025, and has since drawn global attention due to the extreme risks and legal implications of such a journey.

YouTuber Arrested For Visiting Forbidden Indian Island
YouTuber Arrested For Visiting Forbidden Indian Island

What Happened?

Polyakov, who runs the YouTube channel "Neo-Orientalist", is known for creating controversial content from conflict zones and forbidden territories. His latest stunt involved a covert solo mission to North Sentinel Island, a part of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal. The island is off-limits under Indian law to protect the Sentinelese, an uncontacted tribe that has lived in isolation for thousands of years.

According to Indian police, Polyakov used an inflatable boat with a motor to make his way toward the island. After landing briefly and reportedly blowing a whistle for nearly an hour to attract the tribe's attention, he left behind a few items—including bottles of soft drink—and collected samples while recording video footage on his GoPro camera. Authorities confirmed he spent about five minutes on land but made no direct contact with the Sentinelese.

He was spotted by a local fisherman while returning to Port Blair, and was arrested two days later. The police have since launched a full investigation, questioning hotel staff where he stayed and analyzing the footage he captured.

Why Is North Sentinel Island Off-Limits?

North Sentinel Island is roughly the size of Manhattan and lies about 750 miles from mainland India. It’s home to the Sentinelese, one of the last remaining uncontacted tribes in the world. The Indian government enforces a strict no-contact policy to shield them from modern diseases and protect their way of life. Even minor illnesses such as the flu or measles could be deadly for the tribe.

Under the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Regulation (1956), it is illegal to go within 5 nautical miles of the island. Violators can face criminal charges, fines, and deportation.

The island gained global attention in 2018, when American missionary John Allen Chau was killed by the Sentinelese after illegally attempting to preach Christianity there. His death highlighted the dangers of violating the island's protected status.

Who Is Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov?

Originally from Arizona, USA, Polyakov has made a name for himself online through travel videos focused on “forbidden zones” and politically sensitive regions. His channel includes footage from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan and other high-risk destinations. Despite facing multiple warnings, this was reportedly his third attempt to reach North Sentinel Island.

In police custody, Polyakov admitted he was driven by a desire for adventure and exploration, not malice. "He said he wanted to observe and raise awareness about the Sentinelese," said Jitendra Kumar Meena, head of the Andaman and Nicobar Police’s Criminal Investigations Department. However, authorities have not found any evidence of his so-called offerings or intentions on the island.

Legal Status and What’s Next

Polyakov is currently in judicial custody, with a court hearing scheduled for April 17, 2025. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the situation but has not disclosed whether Polyakov has legal representation. The case remains under active investigation.

If found guilty, he could face imprisonment, fines, and eventual deportation. His GoPro footage and travel records will play a key role in determining the extent of his violation.

Ethical and Legal Backlash

Polyakov’s actions have reignited debate around influencer ethics, particularly the lengths to which some content creators go to gain views and followers. Critics argue that such behavior not only endangers vulnerable communities like the Sentinelese but also undermines conservation laws designed to protect indigenous populations.

Indian authorities have issued renewed warnings against visiting North Sentinel Island, stating that no content, fame, or curiosity justifies violating these protections.

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