A search operation for seven villagers trapped inside a flooded cave in central Laos has entered its seventh day, as rescuers encounter difficult terrain and weather as they try to reach the group whose condition remains unknown.
The villagers entered the cave in Xaisomboun province on May 19, but heavy rain triggered flash flooding that blocked the exit, according to Lao and Thai rescue teams involved in the operation.
The Lao organization Rescue Volunteer for People, which is working closely with the local authorities, posted on its Facebook page that Tuesday's operation plan includes exploring air shafts above the cave in hopes of identifying possible access points and locating the trapped people.
