National Parks Department Files Cases Over Illegal Land Titles at Laem Son
The National Parks Department filed cases against illegal land title holders in Laem Son National Park, Ranong, after discovering 29 fraudulently issued deeds covering forested areas with no actual occupation.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation issued a statement on July 22, 2025 regarding the filing of cases for illegal issuance of land title documents within Laem Son National Park in Ranong Province. This followed reports on July 21 that residents had collectively filed a complaint about encroachment in the Khao Pakapriam area and lodged accusations against the department's director-general and the park chief with the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Investigation Division for alleged improper handling of cases against villagers accused of trespassing.
The department denied these allegations, clarifying that Laem Son National Park was officially designated by royal decree on August 10, 1983 with public announcement and detailed boundary maps. All relevant community leaders signed acknowledgment of the park boundaries. The department confirmed it is actively pursuing cases against capital groups illegally occupying forest land within the park across three plots—specifically land plots numbered 915, 916 (subdivided into 8 plots), and 917—and will prosecute all individuals and groups involved. Evidence collection and aerial photograph analysis are ongoing, and the department will forward cases to the Anti-Money Laundering Office under sections 5, 8, and 9 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act B.E. 2542, consistent with the policy of Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchath Chomklin.
Investigations revealed that land title documents were illegally issued for forested areas within the park. Aerial photograph analysis showed no evidence of land utilization, and claims covered areas far exceeding the documented occupied land records (form S.K. 1). The department submitted evidence to the Land Department requesting cancellation of 19 of 29 illegally issued title documents and has filed cases against the three main plots. The department urged the public to exercise critical judgment when receiving information and warned that providing false information may violate the law.
