BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) is intensifying its crackdown on illegal developments in Thap Lan National Park, with authorities ordering the demolition of several properties and preparing to seek asset seizures under the country’s anti-money laundering law. The campaign will continue alongside government assistance for eligible residents seeking lawful land rights. MNRE Minister Suchart Chomklin said officials recently posted court-ordered demolition notices for three illegally developed properties in Wang Nam Khiao district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, while the owner of another property agreed to carry out the demolition voluntarily. The ministry is enforcing final court rulings against investors who illegally occupied protected forest land for commercial development.
Suchart also instructed the ministry’s regional offices in Prachin Buri and Nakhon Ratchasima, together with Thap Lan National Park, to compile records on hotel and resort operators that have failed to comply with court-ordered demolitions. The information, including ownership details, legal records, and evidence from each site, is due by the end of August 2026. The MNRE will then forward the cases to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for consideration of asset seizures involving businesses operating illegally inside the national park. Suchart said the government will continue assisting eligible residents while pursuing legal action against commercial operators found to have encroached on protected forest land. (NNT)
