Police and forestry officials conducted a raid on a durian garden in Khlung district, Chanthaburi, suspected of encroaching on a national forest reserve. This area spans approximately 64 hectares.
The operation, led by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NED), involved local police and forestry officials. The team inspected Ban Bo Welu village, Tambon Tok Prom, following reports of potential land purchases by Chinese investors, possibly involving up to 144 hectares for durian cultivation.
Pol Maj-Gen Watcharin Pusit, NED commander, indicated that initial findings suggest the garden is owned by a Thai national. The investigation aims to ascertain if Chinese investors funded the durian garden. Watcharin noted that the garden's infrastructure, including an advanced sprinkler system, indicates substantial investment.
Reports suggest Chinese investors acquired land from impoverished farmers, despite such land being allocated for farming under the Office of the National Land Policy Board (NLPB). This land, initially granted for farming purposes, had its permission expire in 2003, reverting it to a forest reserve.
In Chachoengsao, Natthawut Pluangthook, assistant director of the NLPB, requested police and forestry officials to inspect areas within the Kwae Rabom National Forest Reserve and Siyad Forest. The encroachment, reportedly by private companies, spans over 55 hectares, including allocated and national forest reserve land. Natthawut's team discovered artesian wells and ponds constructed by investors. Complaints will be filed against those involved, and the Forestry Department plans to use satellite technology for nationwide encroachment detection.
Source: The Nation
