Picture of arrest.

 

Authorities from the Klong Wang Chao National Park in Tak province have successfully raided a gang involved in the illegal logging of “padauk wood,” apprehending five individuals, including two police officers. Investigations are underway to expand the case and ensure severe legal action is taken.

 

Mr. Chaiya Danpho, Director of the 12th Conservation Area Management Bureau (Nakhon Sawan), revealed that Mr. Noppadol Praphong, Head of Klong Wang Chao National Park, reported the discovery of illegal wood processing in the Nakhiri Forest area, near Ban Pang Sangkasi, Moo 11, Chiang Thong Subdistrict, Wang Chao District, Tak.

 

Authorities seized processed padauk wood and unprocessed padauk logs, totalling 1.14 cubic metres, as well as two vehicles used in the illegal activity and numerous tools involved in the crime. Five suspects were arrested, including two police officers, namely 58-year-old Police Officer Wichian and 54-year-old Police Officer Suthin, whose ranks remain unknown. The other suspects are 51-year-old Mr. Wichian, 50-year-old Mr. Thongchai, and 50-year-old Mr. Sombat. The authorities have taken the suspects and seized goods to the Klong Wang Chao National Park office for further investigation and have handed them over to local police at Wang Chao Police Station to face legal proceedings.

 

Padauk wood is a valuable hardwood classified as a protected species under the Forest Act. The unauthorised felling or processing of such wood is illegal, and the high value of processed padauk wood in the black market has led to an ongoing issue of illegal logging. The price of processed padauk can reach tens of thousands of baht per cubic metre in the illicit market.

 

Mr. Noppadol Praphong, Head of Klong Wang Chao National Park, stated that this operation aligns with the policy of Dr. Chalermchai Srion, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, who has emphasised the government’s commitment to cracking down on violations against forest resources. 
 

Investigations will continue to uncover all those involved, and no leniency will be shown, even for government officials. The authorities will also monitor illegal timber transportation routes closely.

 

-- 2025-03-07

 

No brown envelopes let's cut down some trees got to love our valiant police force