Chaiyaphum: The Forestry Department is intensifying its efforts to combat illegal encroachment on national forest reserves after discovering a resort being unlawfully constructed in the Phu Laen Kha National Forest Reserve. The lodging establishment was found to be logging protected timber and building without authorization.
According to Thai News Agency, the Director-General of the Department of Forestry, Mr. Nikorn Sirirojananont, has directed Mr. Kosit Nilrat, the Director of the Forest Protection and Fire Control Office, to pursue legal action against those responsible for the encroachment to the maximum extent permitted by law. The illegal activities were uncovered after a tip-off from a concerned citizen prompted an investigation by the Special Suppression Task Force (Phayak Phrai), led by Chanachai Kijsakdapap.
The investigation revealed that a group of investors had occupied and utilized the forest area illegally. A coordinated inspection by officials from various forestry and law enforcement agencies, including the Forest Protection and Suppression Center 2 and the Forest Resources Management Office 8, led to the discovery of illegal logging operations. A man was found sawing wood in the forest, claiming to be an employee of the establishment, and was apprehended for further questioning.
During the search, officials confiscated 22 logs of protected species such as rosewood, teak, mahogany, and Dipterocarpus alatus, along with other evidence of illegal logging. The suspect was taken to the Chaiyaphum 2 (Phu Laen Kha) Forest Protection Unit for documentation of the incident.
Further inspections of the area revealed tourist accommodations being constructed within the protected forest zone. Using GPS coordinates, officials determined the total encroached area to be 74 rai and 74 square wah. Prior inspections on October 9, 2025, had already resulted in the seizure of 31 rai, 2 ngan, and 26 square wah, which contained 16 structures.
The Department of Forestry has identified multiple offenses under the National Forest Reserve Act B.E. 2507 (1964) and the Forestry Act B.E. 2484 (1941). A formal complaint has been lodged with the Chaiyaphum City Police Station to initiate legal proceedings. Additional actions are being coordinated with the Chaiyaphum Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment, local administrative bodies, and the Chaiyaphum City District to address violations related to groundwater, building, and hotel regulations.
Mr. Sirirojananont emphasized the department's commitment to prosecuting the case fully to safeguard the nation's forests and natural resources.