Laos: Seven people looking for gold trapped in flooded cave for a week in Xaisomboun province
Seven people who ventured into the cave to look for gold have been trapped for a week after heavy rain triggered flash flooding that's blocked the exit.
Rescuers are racing against time to reach seven people who have been trapped in a cave in central Laos since last week.
A group of villagers in Xaisomboun province went into the cave to look for gold on May 19, but heavy rain triggered flash flooding that blocked the exit, according to Laos and Thai rescue teams involved in the operation.
Bounkham Luanglath, who leads the Laos’ Rescue Volunteer for People, told The Associated Press on Monday that one of the people from the group escaped before the exit was blocked and alerted authorities.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The status of the seven people who are trapped remains unknown.
He said the cave is a narrow chamber often visited by villagers searching for gold deposits.
Authorities had repeatedly warned people against entering the cave out of safety concerns.
State-run Lao National Radio reported that Thai rescuers arrived at the site on Sunday for assistance.
Divers have since begun navigating flooded sections of the cave towards the area where they believe the group may be trapped.
The Laos’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment.
The south-east Asian nation is a one-party communist state with no organised opposition and the government often keeps a tight lid on information.
