Port Blair: A 16-day manhunt for two Myanmar nationals who escaped from the Open Distress Camp (ODC) at Prothrapur ended with their apprehension following a coordinated operation by the South Andaman District Police and India Reserve Battalion (IRBn), backed by crucial inputs from alert local residents.
The two escapees, identified as Wai Phyo and Aye Tun, had fled the ODC during the intervening night of July 25 and 26, 2026, triggering an intensive search operation across Prothrapur and adjoining areas.
Following the escape, multiple police teams were deployed round the clock and extensive combing operations were conducted, with available resources mobilised to trace the absconding individuals. The sustained operation eventually led to their apprehension through coordinated action by the South Andaman District Police and IRBn.
Police said information provided by residents of Prothrapur, Beodnabad, Burmanallah and Chidiyatapu proved significant in narrowing the search and locating the escapees. The role of the local community has once again underlined how public vigilance can strengthen policing efforts, particularly during time-sensitive manhunts.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police has expressed its appreciation to the participating agencies and members of the public whose cooperation contributed to the successful operation. Residents who assisted the search operation will be suitably rewarded with cash incentives, police said.
The apprehended Myanmar nationals are being dealt with in accordance with the provisions of law, and further legal proceedings are underway. The Police has also appealed to the public to promptly share information about crimes or other illegal activities. Information can be provided through 112, 03192-232100, 03192-236641 or 03192-232400. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
