Phuket MP reports shooting threat tied to Freedom Beach encroachment dispute
Phuket MP reports shooting threat tied to Freedom Beach encroachment dispute — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
A Phuket lawmaker said on May 6 that a Freedom Beach encroachment dispute had escalated into threats against officials and politicians after complaints that influential figures had seized land in the area. Chalermpong Saengdee, MP for Phuket’s District 2 from the People’s Party, said the case involves alleged encroachment on the Khao Nak Kerd protected forest and intimidation affecting livelihoods and the area’s tourism image.
March inspection found forest clearing, buildings and 4 elephants
The latest tensions follow a March 24 inspection ordered by the Phuket governor and carried out with forestry officers, administrative officials and residents. Chalermpong joined the operation.
Authorities found 5 offenders accused of forest encroachment and clearing. They also found multiple structures, including accommodation, shops and other facilities, inside the reserved forest area.
Officials further found 4 elephants with their legs chained in the area. After the operation, Chalermpong raised the issue in parliament and at a press conference, calling for a serious crackdown on what he described as the “Freedom Beach mafia.”
A forestry officer later sought a transfer, citing health reasons, amid questions over safety after repeated reports of gunshot-like sounds believed to be intimidation.
On May 5, a local influential figure identified only by the initial “L” allegedly posted on social media that shooting an MP would require only B200,000 for bail. Chalermpong also said the same person had allegedly sold reserved forest land to foreigners for tens of millions of baht and had challenged authorities to take the land back.
Source: https://www.dailynews.co.th/news/5838253/
