Lawmakers behind land encroachment

National politicians known to residents in Nakhon Ratchasi-ma are behind a land-encroachment scheme in which 20 resorts have been built illegally on national parkland in Wang Nam Khiao district, a leader of the non-governmental organisations campaigning against the projects alleged yesterday.

Tawan Srikanil, of the Network of Those Loving Khao Yai, said the politicians had exploited state authorities in obtaining vast plots in Wang Nam Khiao through false ownership documents, and had later sold them to developers.

He said there were now 20 resorts built illegally along a 56-kilometre stretch of Wang Nam Khiao-Phang Ma-Pak Chong Road, which runs parallel to national parkland.

Documents and evidence compiled by a local forestry office were yesterday handed over to Royal Forest Department director-general Suwit Rattanamanee.

However, Suwit declined to give a specific answer to reporters' questions as to why he had acted slowly with regard to the extensive encroachment, which was known to the NGOs, local residents and the media.

"I am aware that there have been such allegations, as well as questions over why the department has only taken action now, at the start of a new government taking power. Is there any hidden agenda behind this? I say no," he said, without elaboration.