Phuket –
Local officials in Phuket have launched a targeted inspection of unauthorized soil excavation on Kamala Hill, following public complaints circulating on social media.
The Kathu District Chief Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap told the Phuket Express. They revealed clear signs of recent digging activity despite the absence of workers or machinery at the site.
The excavation appears to violate a formal order issued by the Kamala Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO), which had instructed the landowner to halt all operations as of 7 August. The directive was part of ongoing efforts to prevent environmental degradation and ensure compliance with land-use regulations in the sensitive hillside area.
In response to the breach, Kathu District has requested the Kamala SAO to file a formal complaint with Kamala Police Station. The alleged offense falls under failure to comply with an official order—a charge that carries a maximum penalty of one year’s imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both.
Kamala SAO officials confirmed that the landowner had previously been fined 10,000 baht and advised to submit a proper excavation permit. However, no legal application has been filed to date.
Authorities say they will continue monitoring the site and pursue legal action to deter further violations. The case underscores growing concerns over unregulated land development in Phuket’s hillside zones, where environmental risks and safety hazards remain high.
