Thailand Launches Operation to Reclaim Phuket Forests
Thailand's Forestry Department launched Operation Reclaim Phuket Forests to combat illegal land seizure and encroachment across eight key areas, investigating whether land ownership documents were issued legally and targeting suspected shel
The Forestry Department has launched 'Operation Reclaim Phuket Forests,' coordinating with partner agencies to scan eight target areas and investigate nominee-shell companies, emphasizing fairness to all parties.
On August 3 at the Natural Resources and Environment Office in Phuket, Forestry Department Director-General Nikon Sirirojananan tasked Deputy Director-General Pattapong Smittipatana with chairing a meeting and opening the 'Operation Reclaim Phuket Forests' action plan. The Forestry Resource Management Office 12 in Krabi coordinated with multiple stakeholder agencies across Phuket province.
Following Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin's directive to prevent and combat forest encroachment and illegal seizure of public land by capital groups or individuals seeking unlawful profit from forestland and hills, authorities will focus on scanning eight key target areas: Khao Tata Gliang, Khao Muang, Khuan Tham Ta-in, Khao Daeng, Khao Mai Son, Khuan Na Tata Lae, Paradise Beach, and Koh Lim Beach.
After the meeting, the deputy director-general deployed personnel divided into six teams across the operational areas from August 3–5, 2025, to investigate land clearing on hillsides and verify whether land ownership documents were issued legally, with emphasis on fairness to all parties.
Authorities will also inspect food establishments near Paradise Beach, as there is suspicion of nominee-shell company operations. If clear violations are found, officials will immediately file a complaint with the local police station for legal prosecution, prioritizing fairness to all parties.
