CHIANG MAI, Thailand – Authorities in Chiang Mai province have stepped up enforcement against activities linked to wildfires and haze to address ongoing air pollution and forest fire risks across northern Thailand.
Permanent Secretary for Interior Unsit Sampuntharat said a suspect was arrested last night (Apr 3) in Chai Prakan district after illegally entering a forest area. The arrest was carried out around 1 a.m. by a joint patrol team consisting of administrative officers, national park officials, and military personnel conducting nighttime operations in Sri Dong Yen subdistrict.
Officers spotted the suspect carrying a backpack containing ammunition-related materials, including percussion caps, gunpowder, and shotgun pellets, along with equipment linked to drug use. The individual, who has been taken to Chai Prakan Police Station for legal proceedings, admitted to entering the forest to set hunting traps for wild animals and to using narcotics before returning to his residence.
Officials said the enforcement follows orders from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who has directed authorities across northern provinces to strictly enforce laws banning forest entry and increase patrols and arrests without exception. Provincial leaders and local officials have been instructed to carry out these measures to bring the wildfire and haze situation under control as quickly as possible. (NNT)
