Clear Evidence: Former Head of Mae Yom Wildlife Sanctuary Accused of Using Government Budget to Trick Villagers into Forest Road Construction

On February 19, 2026, Nat Kong-Kaser, an inspector from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, visited the site to investigate claims of illegal road construction and forest destruction in the Mae Yom Wildlife Sanctuary right bank area. The road, connecting Ban Khun Mae Song and Ban Huay Kong Pho villages, spans 6.6 kilometers and was completed within two months. Investigators discovered that government officials falsely claimed the road was a government-funded project, manipulating villagers into supporting the construction. The ministry has initiated legal proceedings against 3-4 individuals involved, including those who ordered and executed the road construction. The ministry emphasized that they will pursue legal action against all responsible parties, including state officials who misused their authority, with potential criminal and disciplinary consequences ranging from suspension to dismissal. Ban Huay Kong Pho village head Cheiab Chai Pongpansung confirmed evidence of deception, including meeting records showing government officials claiming they had funding and promising payment to villagers for road construction.