A 22-year-old man has been arrested in Phitsanulok, Thailand, for setting a forest fire in Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park. The suspect, identified only as Matina, admitted to starting the fire for "entertainment" purposes. This follows multiple reports of fires in the region, which prompted rangers to patrol the area.
Get today's headlines by email 
Matina was found with a lighter in the Kaeng Hat Oi Forest during a routine patrol by the park rangers. Upon questioning, he confessed to lighting the fires out of recklessness, stating he wanted to see the rangers extinguish them. Matina is currently detained at Chat Trakan Police Station, facing legal actions for damaging natural resources.
Authorities continue to monitor northern Thailand closely due to persistent forest fires. Residents have been warned against burning agricultural waste to help curb pollution. In a related incident, authorities in Nan Province arrested 22 individuals involved in similar arson activities, highlighting a broader issue across the region.
Fire-related pollution has significantly affected northern Thailand, with high PM2.5 levels reported. Chiang Mai, as of April 20, ranks as one of the most polluted cities globally. Areas most affected include parts of Nan, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Phitsanulok. Despite these challenges, air quality in Bangkok remains relatively stable.
Officials are intensifying efforts to address the ongoing fire risks and associated pollution. Legal action against those responsible for setting fires is part of a broader strategy to reduce environmental damage and health hazards in the affected areas.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 20 Apr 2026
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment