Forest Fiasco: Nong Chompoo’s Mother Detained for Alleged Land Grab in Reserved Area

The Forestry Department has notified the arrest of Nong Chompoo’s mother, Ban Kok Kok, for encroaching on more than 5 rai of reserved forest. She was ordered to leave the area and demolish it.

On October 26, Chanchai Kitsakdapap, head of the Phayakprai Unit of the Royal Forestry Department, revealed that since a letter of complaint had been sent to the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (NRSA), the Permanent Secretary of the Royal Forestry Department and to the Director General of the Royal Forestry Department. that there is an encroachment on the national forest reserves. Phayakprai’s special team then went to the area to investigate along with the relevant agencies.

Said Mr. Chanchai From the inspection it turned out like this The above plot of land has an area of 5 rai 2 ngan in Pa Dong Phu Phan National Reserve Forest, Village No. 2, Kok Tum Subdistrict, Dong Luang District, Mukdahan Province. The surrounding area is in the process of allotment of arable land to villagers under the NCTC policy which is almost complete. The reported area was owned by the first person after the father, but it has now been discovered that Ms. Sitri Wongsricha, Nong Chompoo’s mother, came to use the area in the middle of last year. where rattan, Namwa bananas, sticky rice and durians of unknown species are grown. Because he informed me that a fan club had sent him to me to plant. while the original owner claimed that he did not have the strength to earn a living. Therefore, Ms. Sitri was allowed to continue making benefits in the area. But due to the consideration of the law, it is illegal. That is, entering and taking advantage of nationally reserved forest areas without permission. Therefore the case has already been reported to the Koktum police station.

Mr Chanchai further stated that, at this time, Ms Sitri is not considered guilty. Because we have to wait for the court to decide. Ms. Sitri was able to present evidence to support. But the Forest Department has to inspect and clear the area accordingly. The National Reserved Forest Act of 1964 will require local agencies to post signs indicating that the area has been confiscated. No one is allowed to take advantage of it. If there is an encroachment, it is considered a repeat occurrence and the authority under Section 25 of the National Reserved Forest Act, 1964 is used to vacate the area and demolish the donkey fruit. If they are not removed, officials must be instructed to remove and replant to restore the forest.