Phuket –
The House of Representatives’ Committee on Anti-Corruption and Misconduct has intensified its investigation into public land disputes in Phuket, following mounting complaints from residents and tourists about restricted access to beaches, unauthorized toll collections, and forest encroachment.
Led by Committee Chairman Arsapol Sorntraiphop, alongside Deputy Chairman Preeti Charoensilp, Committee Spokesperson Thanathan Pramoonpong, and local MP Chalermpong Saengdee of the People’s Party, the delegation conducted a second day of on-site inspections at Nui Beach and Freedom Beach. The visit followed a joint meeting with provincial agencies at Phuket’s City Hall the previous day.
Nui Beach: At Nui Beach, the committee examined complaints of blocked access routes and fees charged to visitors entering the beach. Officials also reviewed land use under the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO), which remains under legal scrutiny.
Freedom Beach: Freedom Beach has been the subject of 24 forest encroachment cases and repeated complaints from both locals and tourists about unauthorized tolls and safety hazards. Several drowning incidents during the monsoon season have raised concerns about inadequate warning signs and safety measures. The committee urged relevant agencies to strengthen safety protocols and improve signage at risk-prone areas.
According to the Department of Lands, the Freedom Beach area comprises nine land plots. Courts have already revoked two land titles deemed unlawfully issued, while the remaining seven are under review. The committee also received petitions from residents regarding land rights and usage, which will be further investigated.
Chairman Arsapol stated that all agencies must submit complete documentation within 15 days for thorough analysis. He pledged that any unlawful issuance of land titles, negligence of duty, or violations of the law would be met with decisive legal action.
“Every parcel of land under review belongs to the nation and must be protected under the same standard,” Arsapol stated. “Our goal is to ensure fairness for all parties and safeguard the public interest in the long term.”
