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Lao official apologises for remarks targeting Thai cave rescuers
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VIENTIANE, Laos — A deputy village chief in Laos has issued a public apology after his social media comments disparaging Thai volunteers helping rescue seven villagers trapped in a flooded cave drew fierce backlash from users in both countries.
Key facts
- VIENTIANE, Laos — A deputy village chief in Laos has issued a public apology after his social media comments disparaging Thai volunteers helping rescue seven villagers trapped in a flooded cave drew fierce backlash from users in both
- Somchay Vilayvong, a deputy village chief in Xaysomboun province, came under fire after posting a comment that many interpreted as demeaning toward the Thai rescue team, suggesting the volunteers had shown up uninvited in search of
- On 26 May 2026, Somchay posted a video apology on his personal Facebook account
- The incident unfolded against the backdrop of an ongoing rescue operation in Long Chaeng district, where seven villagers have been trapped underground since 20 May after heavy rain flooded the entrance to a cave
Summary
Somchay Vilayvong, a deputy village chief in Xaysomboun province, came under fire after posting a comment that many interpreted as demeaning toward the Thai rescue team, suggesting the volunteers had shown up uninvited in search of recognition.
The comment spread rapidly online, drawing criticism from both Lao and Thai social media users.