Discovery of Illegal Land Encroachment in Hua Hin
Authorities have uncovered evidence that a significant commercial mango plantation located in the Hua Hin district of Prachuap Khiri Khan province is encroaching on nearly 4,000 rai of state land. The plantation, named Rai Hub Phueng, has been found to occupy parts of Kaeng Krachan National Park and adjacent state-owned properties. In addition to the mango trees planted on 1,500 rai of land, the site includes several buildings and other infrastructure.
The company responsible for the plantation, Thaisomboon Farm Co., has been summoned by the Department of National Parks to explain the legality of its landholdings. As a result, charges have been filed against the farm’s director and 15 others who hold land rights on the disputed plots for violating multiple laws.
The case is expected to be transferred to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for further action. It qualifies as a special-case due to the involvement of over 100 rai of land. An investigation was conducted on Tuesday and Wednesday at the site in Nong Phlap sub-district, approximately 25 kilometers inland from the beach town of Hua Hin, according to Atthapol Charoenchansa, the director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.
This investigation involved multiple government agencies and was initiated due to suspicions of large-scale land encroachment in the area. The team discovered that a total of 3,952 rai had been unlawfully occupied. Of this, 1,392 rai were within Kaeng Krachan National Park, including land either undocumented or held under Nor Sor 3 Kor, a land-use document that does not equate to full ownership. The remaining 2,728 rai was identified as Ratchaphatsadu, or royal property.
Mongkol Chaiphakdee, the head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, stated that the evidence clearly shows systematic illegal occupation. He emphasized that both criminal and administrative actions are being pursued against those involved. Several local officials are suspected of playing a role in the encroachment, particularly in approving activities such as excavation, landfilling, house registration, and the installation of telecommunications infrastructure.
The issuance of new land use documents within forested areas is also under scrutiny. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in managing and protecting natural resources and state-owned lands from unauthorized use. The involvement of high-profile entities and potential local officials underscores the complexity of the issue and the need for thorough legal and administrative review.
The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of strict enforcement of land use regulations and the need for transparency in all land-related activities. As the investigation continues, it will be crucial to ensure that all parties involved are held accountable and that measures are taken to prevent future encroachments. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar situations across the country, reinforcing the commitment to preserving natural and state-owned lands for future generations.
