An ancient limestone cave took shape about 10,000 years ago in the Helan Mountain of north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has suffered devastation due to illegal excavation and robbery, the local mountain administration said Monday.

The cave, containing innumerable stalactites of various shapes, is located in the Helan Mountain, Alashan League, northwest of Inner Mongolia. It was discovered by forest rangers in July this year.

Unfortunately, the potential tourist site has become a victim of robbers, who risk harsh punishment by stealing those stalactites

Experts said it was the biggest limestone cave in the Helan Mountain which has a history of 10,000 years and has a high value for archaeological studies.

But according to the forest police, the cave has been devalued due to damage caused by robbers, some of whom have been arrested.

Local administrators has installed an anti-theft door at the cave's entrance in September this year to prevent the cave from being further robbed.
 
(Xinhua News Agency November 30, 2005)