Rescue teams from Laos and Thailand are urgently working to reach seven individuals trapped in a cave in central Laos. Last week, villagers from Xaisomboun province entered the cave in search of gold on May 19. However, severe rainfall led to flash floods, blocking their exit.

Bounkham Luanglath, head of Laos’ Rescue Volunteer for People, informed that one person from the group managed to escape before the floods obstructed the entrance. This individual notified authorities about the incident. The condition of the remaining seven trapped villagers remains uncertain.

The cave, known for being a narrow chamber, is frequently visited by locals hunting for gold deposits. Despite consistent warnings from authorities about potential dangers, villagers continue to venture inside.

Thai rescue teams arrived at the site on Sunday to assist with the operations. Divers have started navigating the submerged portions of the cave as they make their way toward the suspected location of the trapped group.

The Lao National Radio is a state-run entity and has reported on the Thai assistance. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Laos has not given any comments. Laos is governed as a one-party communist state, which typically restricts the dissemination of information.