Anutin vows Phuket crackdown on beach encroachment and “mafia” influence
PM Anutin flew into Phuket International Airport before travelling directly to Bang Tao Beach in Cherng Talay, where authorities are investigating the latest alleged encroachment on public land and protected coastal…
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Phuket on May 11 and went straight from Phuket International Airport to Bang Tao Beach, where authorities are investigating alleged encroachment on public land and protected coastal areas. The Phuket inspection came after rising complaints that businesses and structures had occupied government land, including sections built directly on the beach, with allegations that corruption and local influence had allowed illegal operations to continue.
Bang Tao probe targets public land occupation
Last month, officials removed restaurant furniture, temporary structures and commercial seating areas from the sand at Bang Tao after finding operators had expanded onto public beachfront. Authorities said the beach itself remains state land reserved for public use, even where nearby businesses legally operate on titled plots behind it.
Provincial officials said they had reclaimed more than five rai of beachfront land and identified at least 16 restaurants and related structures during the operation. The same operation drew allegations that investors had fenced off parts of public beach land and made money by subleasing the areas to operators.
The latest investigation centers on claims that restaurants, shops and permanent buildings were put up on protected forest land and public beachfront covered by the Forest Act. Officials said dozens of structures now face legal action because they stand on land where ownership documents cannot legally be issued.
PM frames dispute as law enforcement test
During the inspection, Anutin said, “There must be no influential figures or mafia,” and added, “I will find every possible way to solve your problems.” He also said authorities would not accept the use of influence, intimidation or unlawful control over public land for private gain.
Government statements said the dispute now affects public rights, national confidence and Thailand’s image. Officials also announced plans for a “Bang Tao model” to manage public beach land through coordinated oversight by local authorities, forestry officials and police.
A planned inspection of Freedom Beach was later cancelled, and officials said Anutin instead traveled urgently to Ranong for a security operation involving suspected tax-evading goods worth more than B50 million.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/anutin-vows-crackdown-on-phuket-mafia-100185.php
