Alleged encroachment on protected Phuket mangroves in cross hairs

PHUKET: An investigation was launched into allegations that a Rassada landowner was encroaching on a protected mangrove forest and preventing villagers from accessing the forest for fishing.

At the property, Phuket Vice Governor Somkiet Sangkaosuttirak and his team were greeted by Koompha Thammapradit, who claimed to know the land owner and presented a Sor Kor 1 title deed for 300 rai of land.

“The house had a big locked gate and a wall blocking access to the mangrove forest,” said V/Gov Somkiet. “Once inside, it was clear that the owner had tried to reclaim land from the mangrove forest. He had even established barriers in the water area of the forest.”

After presenting the committee with the Sor Kor 1, Mr Koompha was invited to Phuket Provincial Hall.

“The Sor Kor 1 is for 300 rai that belong to Somsri Udomsub, and which my son has been taking care of for the last 10 years. All the construction that has been done has been at her request,” Mr Koompha said at Provincial Hall.

Mr Koomphan was unable to provide the committee with any relevant information about Ms Somsri, said V/Gov Somkiet.

“We believe that the Sor Kor 1 is fake. I am having officers survey the land, and have requested Mr Koompha to provide supporting land ownership documents,” said V/Gov Somkiet.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong