Two suspects face charges over alleged illegal occupation of protected land in Rawai

Two suspects are facing criminal charges after Rawai Municipality filed a police complaint over the alleged illegal clearing, occupation and construction on protected public land in Moo 6, Rawai.

The action followed complaints that land in the Phromthep Animal Grazing Area, which is protected by law, had been illegally cleared and occupied.

A joint inspection was carried out on Wednesday, July 1, by Mueang Phuket District officials, members of the Volunteer Defence Corps, village officials and representatives from Rawai Municipality led by Mayor Thames Kraithat.

Officials said they found two plots of land, identified as Plot No. Phk.0097 and designated as a livestock grazing reserve for public use, had been illegally cleared and occupied. Buildings had been constructed across the site, covering about seven rai.

Rawai Municipality had previously issued orders suspending construction and prohibiting use of the buildings. It later issued a demolition order on June 29 requiring all structures to be removed.

At about 5:30pm on July 1, Rawai Municipality filed a complaint with Chalong Police seeking legal action against the two suspects.

The suspects face three main charges: failing to comply with an order issued by local authorities, constructing buildings without permission in violation of the Building Control Act, and illegally encroaching on public land and protected forest land in violation of land and forestry laws.

Provincial officials said the operation is part of Phuket Governor Chotinrin Kerdsum’s policy to intensify action against the illegal occupation of public land and forest areas across Phuket. Authorities said investigations and enforcement operations targeting land encroachment will continue throughout the province.