Smart Patrol Catches Poacher Before Wildlife Killed in Phu Wiang

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin highlighted the success of the Smart Patrol system after Phu Wiang National Park rangers arrested a poacher carrying a homemade air rifle and hunting gear before he could kill any wildlife. The Minister ordered all national park units to intensify patrols, especially in border areas between communities and parks, to stop threats at the source.

The Minister revealed the results of efforts to prevent and suppress forest crimes, stating the ministry prioritizes protecting natural resources and wildlife through the Smart Patrol system, which emphasizes proactive work to "intercept and arrest before wildlife is hunted." Recently, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation reported that the Phu Wiang National Park Smart Patrol Unit 2 (Hua Phu Chan) apprehended a suspect with firearms and hunting equipment just in time to prevent losses.

"A key ministry policy is to elevate forest and wildlife protection through technology and Smart Patrol," Suchart said. "The arrest at Phu Wiang demonstrates the readiness and firmness of officials in analyzing intelligence and planning precise area access. It is a clear example of 'catch before hunt,' which saves wildlife lives immediately. I have ordered all subordinate agencies to increase patrol strictness, particularly in border zones between communities and park areas, to halt risk factors from the outset."

Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Director-General Yongyut Nakviroj detailed that Phu Wiang National Park Smart Patrol Unit 2 (Hua Phu Chan) planned to inspect the Huai Hai forest area in Khua Riang Subdistrict, Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen Province after receiving a tip that poachers had sneaked into the area.

Around 06:00, officials moved to arrest Mr. Songkran (surname withheld), 49, a resident of Khua Riang Subdistrict, Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen Province. He was found with a homemade Thai air rifle loaded with live ammunition, animal traps, and other illegal equipment totaling 19 items.

"During interrogation, the suspect confessed he had sneaked in since October 23 to set traps and prepare for hunting until he encountered officials," Yongyut said. "This arrest follows the Minister's order emphasizing proactive prevention. Initially, charges are being pressed under the National Park Act B.E. 2562 Section 19 (7) for bringing weapons or tools for hunting into a national park, Section 20 for failing to comply with official orders, and the Firearms Act B.E. 2490. The case has been handed to Chum Phae Police Station investigators for legal proceedings."

The Director-General added that he has ordered Phu Wiang National Park and all conservation area units nationwide to densify patrol plans in risk spots, alongside public relations to build knowledge and understanding with communities around forest boundaries about the importance of wildlife and legal penalties, to foster cooperation in caring for natural resources going forward.