Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is the agency responsible for Victory Monument, according to its City Planning Department.
Sakchai Boonma, director-general of the department, said on Tuesday a check with the Lands Department showed the plot where the structure was built 76 years ago carried no title deed.
“However, the land surrounding it has titles showing the Treasury Department as the owner,” he said.
“The monument is located where three roads meet and roads are public places. Since BMA is responsible for public places [in Bangkok], it is in charge of the monument as well,” Mr Sakchai said.
City Hall prepares to embark on a project for the restoration of 15 monuments in the capital.
The problem came to public attention on July 2 as city officials attempted to find out which agency was responsible for Victory Monument as plans for its restoration were drawn up ahead of a request for budget allocation.
Victory Monument has been located where three roads -- Phaya Thai, Ratchawithi and Phahon Yothin -- meet, since 1942, and marks the bravery of those military personnel, police officers and civilians who died during the Franco-Thai War over disputed territories in French Indochina in 1940-41.
On Feb 3, which marks Thai Veterans' Day, the WVO, war veterans and their families lay flowers at the monument in memory of the fallen.
