The recovery is linked to a tourist boat sinking on December 18 near the Ting Cave (Tham Ting) area, close to the well-known Pak Ou Caves. Three people were initially reported missing, including two young sisters.

Authorities have identified the deceased as the mother of the two missing girls. As of the evening of December 22, search efforts along the Mekong River remain intensive, with rescue teams continuing to look for the two children.

Details of the incident were outlined in an official report by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The report, dated December 19 and released publicly on December 22, confirmed that a tourist slow boat sank after striking submerged rocks near the Pak Ou Caves.

According to the ministry, the vessel was carrying 147 passengers at the time of the accident, including 29 Lao nationals and 118 foreign tourists. Most of those on board were rescued shortly after the collision.

“The search for the two young girls remains our absolute priority. Our teams are working around the clock with the support of local villagers,” a rescue coordination official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This is a devastating tragedy for the family, and our hearts are with them.”

Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the search operation and the condition of other passengers in the coming days.

KPL