Mae hong son: Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, spearheads a significant operation against illegal road construction through the Mae Yuam forest. He is committed to taking decisive action against those involved, disregarding any potential power struggles.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthapol plans to visit the Mae Yuam Right Bank Wildlife Sanctuary with advisors to Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, to investigate the ongoing illegal road construction since the end of 2025. Criminal charges have already been ordered against involved officials, and a serious disciplinary investigation is underway. The Director-General is working with security agencies to expedite the process and ensure justice is served.

Concerns raised by Mr. Lau Fang Bandittheodsakul, a prospective MP from the People's Party, highlight potential political implications and power dynamics within the agency. Despite these concerns, Mr. Atthapol assured that no bribes had been accepted from high-ranking officials, challenging anyone to present evidence to the contrary. He plans to hold a meeting with community leaders and security officials at Mae La Luang Police Station and inspect the incident site to maintain transparency and public scrutiny.

Further investigations revealed encroachment on over 1.2 kilometers of the Salawin Wildlife Sanctuary, alongside the illegal road construction. Officials have seized 329 valuable logs, totaling 156.94 cubic meters, which remain in the area. Mr. Atthapol emphasized that the operation aims to combat influential groups exploiting transportation routes in the border area. He affirmed the Department's readiness to take full legal action against any powerful individuals implicated by evidence.