Two Myanmar Sea Cucumber Poaching Accused Escape ODC in Andaman Islands

Two Myanmar nationals accused of sea cucumber poaching escaped from an Open Distress Camp (ODC) in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands early on Sunday, prompting police to launch a search operation across land and sea.

The two men, identified as Aye Tun and Wai Phyo, reportedly escaped around 12.30 am by scaling the boundary wall of the facility, which is located near the Brichgunj jungle area, a senior police officer said.

“They must be hiding inside the jungle. We have launched a sea and land combing operation in the area,” the officer said, adding that the possibility of the two attempting to flee towards Myanmar through the sea route could not be ruled out.

Another Myanmar national was reportedly present with the two during the escape attempt but failed to scale the wall. According to the police, he told investigators that the duo had been desperate to return home and had allegedly been planning their escape for the past few days.

Aye Tun and Wai Phyo were arrested in 2022 and 2025, respectively, in connection with the illegal poaching of sea cucumbers. Both had completed their jail terms and were awaiting deportation, with the necessary formalities reportedly being processed through diplomatic channels.

The police said they were unclear about the reason behind the escape, given that the two were expected to be repatriated soon.

The ODC currently houses around 186 foreign nationals, most of whom have completed their sentences for offences linked to sea cucumber smuggling and are awaiting deportation.

Sea cucumbers are endangered marine invertebrates that play an important ecological role by consuming decaying organic matter and food deposited on the seabed. They are also valued for their use in traditional medicine and exotic cuisine, making them a target for illegal poaching and smuggling.