Govt seizes land from 39 in Phuket

BANGKOK (The Nation): The Agriculture Land Reform Department yesterday revoked the land-right documents held by 39 people who were found to be unqualified to occupy SorPorKor land earmarked for farmers in Phuket. Agriculture Minister Sora-at Klinprathum said the revocation took immediate effect and that no prior warning letters were necessary to inform the holders. “We are also verifying other holders of land under the agricultural land reform program. Of 515 people, we believe more than 100 have illegally seized the land,” he said. Deputy Agriculture Minister Newin Chidchob said the latest random checks targeted 45 holders, most of whom were found to be ineligible to hold SorPorKor papers. He added that the preliminary investigation of SorPorKor problems should be completed within 60 days.