The Royal Forestry Department (RFD) on Monday expanded its crackdown on alleged forest encroachment in Phuket, targeting eight locations as part of the government's "Phuket Model" policy to reclaim illegally occupied land.
The operation follows the removal of 500 structures at Nui Beach last month under a court order, ending a decade-long dispute over land encroachment at the popular tourist site.
RFD deputy director-general Phatpong Samittipat said the latest operation was launched after the department received information from the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) about suspected encroachment at eight locations across the island.
More than 160 officials were deployed from Aug 3-5 to inspect sites in Thep Krasattri and Choeng Thale in Thalang district, Sri Sunthorn, Rawai, Kamala and Patong.
Mr Phatpong said mountainous areas were the main focus due to extensive deforestation. Some plots may be held by private individuals with land title deeds, but authorities will verify whether the documents were legally issued.
The operation also targeted Paradise Patong restaurant, which Mr Phatpong said was reportedly linked to an influential figure.
He said the Nui Beach operation was nearly complete, with only some areas still under negotiation with the Land Reform Office. The Forestry Department, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and Department of Marine and Coastal Resources will continue monitoring the area to prevent repeat offences.
Officials also plan to clean up Nui Beach and Laem Krathing Cape before designating them as a recreational forest park.
Mr Phatpong said the successful operations at Nui Beach and Freedom Beach would serve as a model for future action, including Paradise Patong and Wat Phra Yai in Karon.
