Phuket:Police are broadening their investigation into a fraudulent land sale scheme involving protected forest areas, with the alleged transactions exceeding 10 million baht and targeting a group of foreigners. "Sia Lek" and his accomplices are set to be remanded in custody tomorrow following the "Free Freedom Beach" operation, which targeted influential figures and led to their arrest for allegedly seizing forest land at Freedom Beach and defrauding villagers.
According to Thai News Agency, authorities apprehended Mr. Parinthorn, known as "Sia Lek," along with his wife Ms. Netsawan ("Krathin"), his daughter Ms. Maneesawan ("Ploy"), and his son-in-law Mr. Krisana ("Max") at their house in Kathu District, Phuket Province. They face charges of encroaching on protected forest land in the Khao Nakorn mountain range, fraudulently selling it, and causing damages exceeding 20 million baht. The group reportedly threatened victims by posting gun photos on social media and firing shots at night.
During the search, officers collected evidence to incriminate the suspects, including the firearms featured in social media posts, which were confiscated for further investigation. All suspects denied the charges during questioning.
The arrests occurred at 800 AM yesterday. Later, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, visited Kathu Police Station to oversee the investigation. Today, he is set to participate in demolishing over 20 structures encroaching on Freedom Beach, some linked to "Sia Lek." After his visit, officials escorted the suspects to Bangkok for further proceedings by the Crime Suppression Division.
Police Lieutenant General Nattasak Chaowanasai, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, indicated that on Monday, investigators will present Mr. Parinthorn and his accomplices in court for remand. The investigation continues to identify other individuals implicated by victims. The ongoing forest reserve encroachment case involves joint prosecution with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, with demolition of structures scheduled for today.
Initially, charges against Mr. Parinthorn and four others include conspiracy to defraud the public, importing false information into a computer system, and encroaching on a national forest reserve. An in-depth review of Mr. Parinthorn's social media revealed a pattern of violent behavior, including displaying firearms.