Irish Influencer Faces Backlash for Attempting to Contact ‘Cannibal Tribe’

UPDATE: An Irish social media influencer, Dara Tah, is under fire after attempting to contact a remote Indigenous group in Papua, Indonesia, often labeled as a “cannibal tribe.” The controversial video, which has now amassed nearly 18 million views on TikTok, showcases Dara’s reckless approach to exploring potentially dangerous cultures.

In the gripping footage, Dara, alongside tourists and a local guide, navigates a river in Papua. As they near the riverbanks, tension escalates when local tribespeople gather, with one individual aiming a bow and arrow at the group. An anxious tourist captures the moment, exclaiming, “I think they’re pointing bows and arrows at us, bro.” Dara responds, “Seriously, this is terrifying…they’re huge bows,” while attempting to communicate peace by waving at the locals.

The situation intensifies when Dara offers a packet of salt to a local man, who tastes it and promptly spits it out. “Oh God, he doesn’t look like he likes that. Alright guys, let’s move back maybe,” Dara remarks, sensing the rising hostility. The guide advises, “We have to move. We’re not welcome. It’s really dangerous,” highlighting the risky nature of the influencer’s actions.

Despite this warning, Dara’s resolve hardens. He vows to return, captioning the video, “Deep in the jungle of Papua… Just tried to make contact with a cannibal tribe LOL. Will try again tomorrow. Wish us luck.” This declaration has drawn significant criticism across social media platforms, with many users condemning his approach. Comments flooded in, urging him to respect the tribe’s privacy, with one user stating, “Leave them alone,” while another asserted, “THEY R NOT CANNIBAL, THEY’RE JUST PEOPLE LIVING IN PEACEFUL LIFE.”

The backlash raises vital questions about the ethics of content creation in sensitive cultural contexts. Influencers like Dara, who boast 723,000 followers on TikTok and 828,000 subscribers on YouTube, hold considerable power and influence. Yet, with such power comes responsibility, and many believe that exploiting vulnerable communities for entertainment is reckless and harmful.

Critics have also suggested the possibility of the video being staged, with one user commenting, “Staged tourist trap. People believe this?” Another questioned the authenticity of Dara’s guide, saying, “Am I the only one that thinks this tourist got set up and scammed by the guy that said ‘I’m sorry I had to take you here.'”

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with modern influencer culture. As social media platforms continue to thrive, the line between exploration and exploitation becomes increasingly blurred.

NEXT: As the controversy unfolds, many are left wondering how Dara will respond to the backlash and whether he will follow through on his promise to return. Influencers and followers alike are urged to consider the impact of their actions on Indigenous communities and the ethical implications of their content.

Stay updated as this story develops.