Phuket –
On May 10th, 2026, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Bang Tao Beach in Cherng Talay, Thalang District, Phuket, to address long-standing issues of land encroachment and unauthorized commercial use of public areas. He declared the government’s firm commitment to restoring order, stressing that “no influential figures or mafia” will be allowed to exploit state-owned land for private gain.
The Prime Minister explained that leasing or subletting public land without authorization is illegal, and vowed decisive action against violators, including those profiting from encroachment and individuals deceiving citizens into signing unlawful rental contracts. At the same time, he acknowledged the need to support local entrepreneurs and residents who entered into agreements in good faith, promising to explore legal pathways that allow them to continue earning a livelihood without harming natural resources or infringing on public rights.
Anutin announced plans to establish the “Bang Tao Beach Model” as a blueprint for managing public spaces nationwide. The initiative envisions cooperation between state agencies and local administrative organizations to create transparent, systematic management of public areas. The model is to ensure fair access, prevent monopolization, and allow communities to benefit legally from shared resources.
To implement this vision, the Prime Minister directed administrative officials, forestry officers, and police to integrate their efforts and strictly enforce the law. The goal is to return public land to the people, safeguard natural assets, and maintain order in one of Phuket’s most important tourist destinations.
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