Operation to rescue 12 boys from Thailand cave nowhere close to ending

A group of 12 boys and their coach were reported missing on June 23 after football practice. The team had gone to explore the Tham Luang Nang Non-cave in Thailand and got trapped inside after heavy rains flooded its entrance. (Source: AP)

One of the boys’ mothers reported them missing after her son didn’t return home after practice. Subsequently, their bicycles and soccer boots were found at the mouth of the caves, prompting authorities to launch a massive rescue operation. (Source: AP)

On July 2, Thai Navy SEALS and two British cave diving experts found them alive, deep inside a partially flooded part of the cave. They were found on an elevated rock about four kilometres from the mouth of the cave. (Source: AP)

The 12 boys and soccer coach found after 10 days on June 2 are mostly in stable medical condition and have received high-protein liquid food, officials said. Though it is not known when they will be able to go home. (Source: AP)

As none of the boys can swim, the operation to reach them is ongoing. They have been given food, blankets, and first aid. (Source: AP)

Thai authorities are racing to pump water out of the flooded cave before rains hit the northern region. Almost 120 million litres of water were pumped out by Tuesday, reported Reuters. (Source: AP)

The group was discovered on July 2 after spending 10 days totally cut off from the outside world. While they are physically healthy, experts say the ordeal has likely taken a mental toll that could worsen if the situation lasts longer.(Royal Thai Navy Facebook Page via AP, File)

A former Thai Navy SEAL member died inside the cave on Thursday night due to a lack of oxygen, raising concerns about the 12 school boys and their 25-year-old coach. In Pic: Thai SEAL commander Arpakorn Yookongkaew talks to reporters during a press conference in northern Thailand. (Source: AP)

As the monsoon in Thailand extends till October, there are fears that the boys may be trapped for months. (Source: AP)