Second extraction operation commenced: Rescue mission chief

CHIANG RAI, July 9 (TNA) -- The rescue teams reentered the Tham Luang caverns to begin the second operation to bring out the stranded Mu Pa Academy young footballers trapped in the cave in Chiang Rai, according to rescue-operation chief Narongsak Osottanakorn. Mr Narongsak told the media at the latest press conference today confirming that the second operation to bring out the remaining nine stranded boys began at 11am. Mr Narongsak assured the public that every facet of the planning, equipment as well as the rescue teams themselves were in the state of highest preparedness and that fortunately the rains which fell yesterday (July 8) had very minimal impact on the rescue. He did however confirm that due to fears of further rains complicating the rescue it was agreed that it would be best to bring out the remaining boys as quickly as possible. The governor also stated that a decision was reached to not to officially release the names of the first for boys that was brought out until all 13 was rescued for fear of raising ill feelings. With regards to names already leaked to the public, Mr Narongsak stated that they were mostly inaccurate. Commenting on allegations of eavesdropping on police-band radios and the use of drones to violate the no-fly zone over the rescue site, Mr Narongsak revealed that police was investigating the matter and that he has already received a preliminary report. (TNA)