Finnish cave-diving expert Mikko Paasi has joined a rescue mission in Laos to help save seven workers trapped inside a flooded cave in Xaysomboun province.
Paasi, who took part in the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue in Thailand, arrived at the site together with Thai diver Norrased Palasing as rescue teams continue efforts to reach the trapped men.
The workers are believed to be among a group hired by a Chinese mining company to search for gold in Long Cheng district. Heavy rain reportedly caused flash flooding and a landslide that blocked the cave entrance on 19 May.
According to rescue officials, the cave system is extremely narrow and difficult to navigate, with some flooded sections measuring only around 50 centimetres wide. Teams believe the trapped workers may have reached a chamber located more than 100 metres inside the cave.
Thai rescue personnel described the mission as a race against time due to rising water levels and ongoing rainfall in the mountainous area. Laos authorities have also provided helicopter and logistical support for the multinational operation.
Reports from the scene said additional diving teams from Finland are expected to join the rescue effort.
Paasi became internationally known during the 2018 Tham Luang rescue operation, when an international team of divers helped save 12 young footballers and their coach trapped inside a flooded cave in northern Thailand.
