Thailand's Natural Resources Minister Orders Central Team to Investigate Allegations of Forest Encroachment by Bum Pannada's Husband

Key summary

On October 24, 2026, Suachat Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, stated that he has ordered the Forestry Department to investigate allegations that the husband of Ms. Pannada Wong-udee (known as 'Bum Pannada') encroached on over 100 rai of forest reserve land. Although an initial report indicated the area is state-owned land managed by the Treasury Department, where the Forestry Department also rents space, the Minister expressed that he does not fully trust the preliminary field report. He has dispatched a special task force from the central office, including an Assistant Minister, to visit the site on October 26-27 to verify facts and examine evidence. The Minister emphasized that re-inspection is necessary to answer public questions when facing major social allegations, regardless of internal relationships. If violations are confirmed, legal action and demolition will be taken according to law, similar to procedures for National Park Tak Laem. Additionally, the use of land on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Province, is under review despite initial reports of valid rights documents, as the matter is not yet resolved.