Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Authorities have launched a crackdown on illegal land encroachment in Prachuap Khiri Khan, seizing more than 3,900 rai of state-owned and national park land allegedly occupied by the “Rai Hub Phueng” mango plantation in Hua Hin district. The case is set to be transferred to Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for further legal action as a special case.

 

The operation, which took place between 8–9 July, was led by Mr Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. A multi-agency team, including representatives from Kaeng Krachan National Park, the Royal Thai Army, anti-corruption police and the Treasury Department, jointly investigated the plantation located in Nong Phlap subdistrict.

 

Initial findings indicate extensive illegal occupation of land within Kaeng Krachan National Park and government property under land code Por Kor 605, amounting to a combined area of approximately 3,952 rai. The investigation revealed that multiple plots were claimed using suspicious land documents (Nor Sor 3 Kor) and in some cases, no legal ownership documents existed at all.

 

Officials identified and filed charges against 15 individuals, including Mr Sirirot, a director of a private company managing the plantation and other stakeholders. Charges include violations under the National Park Act (2019), the Forest Act (1941), the State Property Act (2019), the Thai Navigation Act (1913), and the Land Code.

 

Mr Mongkol Chaiphakdee, Chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, stated that the landowners had previously submitted documentation claiming legal ownership. However, following an analysis of aerial images and document cross-checks, it was found that certain Nor Sor 3 Kor titles were likely issued fraudulently. The Department of Lands is currently reviewing these titles for revocation.

 

Investigators also found evidence of significant land alterations including hill excavation, landfilling and unauthorised infrastructure development such as telephone towers, all of which would require official permits. The alleged encroachment may also involve local officials, who could face scrutiny from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC).

 

As the size of the encroached land exceeds 100 rai, the case qualifies for DSI investigation under special case criteria, giving the department broader powers than the national park or regular police authorities.

 

Mr Atthaphon reiterated that this operation aligns with the government’s commitment to combat forest encroachment and preserve Thailand’s natural resources. He cited direct orders from Dr Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, to intensify enforcement efforts against forest land violations and illegal logging.

 

“This enforcement sends a clear message, those who destroy our forests will be brought to justice. The state will act decisively to reclaim our natural heritage,” Mr Atthaphon declared.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-11

 

 

 

And as usual...nobody knew it was there on state owned land.....mature mango trees....likely 5+ years old...

And what do we have here? A possibly-as-usual leap from big fruit (Hua Hin) to big pork (Chiang Mai)?

That’s exactly the kind of bold move agribusiness folks love — switching from sweet mango groves down south to large-scale pig farming up north. Growing, diversifying, and spreading the risks.

Of course, it’s under investigation now, so both stories are still unfolding. But when the names truly link, it’s classic entrepreneurial hustle by people who haven’t seen enough money yet — ambitious, diverse, and a bit messy.

As the old Dutch proverb says: “’n boer en unne zog hebben nooit genog.” 🐷🍋