Bangkok: Government officials have been implicated in a scandal involving the encroachment on public land, as revealed by an investigation conducted by ISOC Region 4 in collaboration with the Office of the Ombudsman and the Goddess Task Force. The case is set to be forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for further expedited investigation.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thammanun Maisonthi, spokesperson for the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), addressed complaints regarding influential activities in the border areas of Chumphon and Ranong provinces. These incidents, which date back to February 2025, are currently under scrutiny by the relevant agencies. The investigation was initiated following complaints from citizens in Chumphon Province concerning influential individuals in Tha Sae District, who are accused of abusing their power and posing threats to internal security.
The investigation uncovered the involvement of more than ten individuals from both the public and private sectors, who allegedly collaborated in criminal activities such as encroaching on public land, planting illegal crops, illegally importing agricultural products, and smuggling Rohingya workers into the country. These actions are reported to have significant implications for national security and the economy.
The investigation team has compiled evidence, summarized reports, and recorded witness statements, submitting these to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) for further examination and prosecution according to legal procedures.
In response, the Royal Thai Army, led by the Goddess Force, has intensified law enforcement efforts in affected regions. This includes blocking four high-risk areas, closing five natural channels, and establishing three additional patrol teams. These measures have reportedly resulted in a decline in illegal activities along the border.
The ISOC continues to emphasize the importance of integrated security missions, focusing on surveillance, prevention, and proactive problem-solving. The organization has expressed gratitude to other agencies involved in addressing these issues and has urged the public to report any illegal activities to government officials promptly to ensure timely legal intervention.