Phuket: Forestry officials have issued a notice mandating the demolition of structures encroaching on the protected forest area of Khao Nak Kerd, above Freedom Beach, by August 5th. The directive targets 22 structures spanning over 9 rai, which have been identified as unauthorized developments within the national forest reserves.

According to Thai News Agency, the notices were jointly posted by officials from the Forestry Department, the Phuket Provincial Administration, and the Karon Police Station. Occupiers of the land have been given the right to appeal the order within 15 days of the notice, setting a deadline of July 21, 2026, for any objections to be lodged.

The Forestry Department has emphasized the legal implications of failing to adhere to the demolition order. Should the structures not be removed by the August 5, 2026 deadline, the department is prepared to enforce the law. Encroachment and construction in national forest reserves without permission violate the National Forest Reserve Act B.E. 2507 (1964) and related legislation, which can result in criminal penalties, mandatory demolition, and reclamation of the land by the state.