After more than two weeks of searching, rescue teams have called off efforts to find two men who remain missing inside a flooded cave in Laos, Bangkok Post reports.
The seven men became trapped in a cave in Xaysomboun Province on 20 May when flash floods blocked their exit. They had entered the cave to hunt bats and search for gold in old mining areas.
Five of the men were found alive a week later and were successfully rescued. However, the remaining two have not been located despite extensive efforts by Lao and international rescue teams.
Malaysian cave diver Lee Kian Lie, who took part in the operation, said rescuers had come close to being able to continue the search.
“We were so close. The water in the cave was already manageable, but the cave entrance started to become unstable,” he told AFP.
According to Lee, conditions inside the cave have now become too dangerous for rescue teams.
“To continue the operation is high risk,” he said.
Lee also reflected on the emotional toll of the operation.
“Everyone tried. We tried. I am sorry for the family,” he said.
Thai rescue leader Kengkad Bongkawong confirmed that no one would be allowed back into the cave because of the danger.
“No one is allowed inside the cave because it is too risky for anyone to enter,” he wrote in a social media post.
Even though the active search has ended, teams will continue pumping water from outside the cave.
“There are still food rations and survival supplies that we have placed at various points inside the cave,” Kengkad said.
“If miracles exist, I believe their expertise will guide them out safely.”
The operation involved cave rescue specialists from several countries, including Finland-based diver Mikko Paasi, who was among the international experts assisting at the site.
Heavy rain is expected in the area in the coming days, further reducing the chances of resuming the search.
