The National Anti-Corruption Office (P.P.C.) has firmly warned Koh Phangan's local services, which it accuses of "laxity" towards the illegal encroachment of public forests by "capitalist groups", according to ManagerOnline.
In a statement published on 10 July, the P.P.C. of Surat Thani province denounces the lack of response from local administrations following the discovery of heavy machinery used to illegally dig and level forest areas on the island.
The services concerned were content to state "not knowing the identity of the offenders" and to put up modest warning signs, without filing a complaint to protect public property.
"Protecting natural resources is not limited to organising activities to give the impression of acting. The law must be applied with determination. Lack of budget cannot justify abandoning this mission."
The P.P.C. has ordered the competent authorities to gather the necessary evidence without delay to criminally prosecute the companies involved. Any delay or omission by officials will expose them to criminal and disciplinary proceedings, "without any exception".
To ensure the operation does not remain without follow-up, a follow-up meeting is scheduled for 14 July with the governor of Surat Thani. Participants will map risk areas across the entire island to permanently eradicate these encroachment practices.