Police at Pak Chong Police Station have finalised their investigation into an alleged illegal VIP runway in Khanong Phra, Nakhon Ratchasima and submitted the case to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The case centres on complaints from local residents accusing state officials of neglect under Section 157, allowing a runway to be built over a public road, causing disruption and safety concerns. Get today's headlines by email The issue dates back to 2025, when affected residents in Khanong Phra subdistrict and Lam Takhong self-help settlement filed complaints with investigators. They alleged that state officials, along with individuals and corporate entities, were involved in constructing an unauthorised airstrip over a public road in Village 12, without approval from the Director-General of the Department of Social Development and Welfare under Section 15. Authorities found the runway, approximately 1.5 kilometres long, had been created using a public road under the responsibility of the Khanong Phra Subdistrict Administrative Organisation. The road had long been used by local residents, and its conversion into a private aircraft runway raised concerns over legality, safety, and public access. The case potentially breaches several laws, including the Land Allocation for Livelihood Act 1968, Air Navigation Act 1954, Building Control Act 1979, Land Code, and Anti-Money Laundering Act 1999. Evidence was also provided by complainants, including Mr Phattharaphong Suphaksorn and Dr Kusumalwatee Sirikomut, who raised concerns over the misuse of public land. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) conducted a parallel inquiry, gathering evidence and coordinating with five agencies, including the Department of Lands and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand. After more than five months of investigation, the DSI decided not to classify the matter as a special case and instead submitted its findings to the NACC in December 2025 to align with the police case. Matichon reported that police investigators completed witness interviews and evidence collection before forwarding the case file, with recommendations, to the NACC. The allegations focus on misconduct and dereliction of duty by state officials, as well as the involvement of private entities and individuals. Pictures courtesy of Matichon Related stories DSI-probes-illegal-built-over-public-land-in-Nakhon-Ratchasima DSI-probes-alleged-illegal-runway-built-over-public-land-at-private-airport Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 18 Mar 2026
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