Authorities Enforce Removal of Encroaching Structures at Nui Beach

Phuket —

Forest authorities have formally posted a notice under Section 25 of the National Reserved Forest Act at Nui Beach ordering the removal of unauthorized structures and crops by July 9th, 2026.

The announcement was delivered by Sampan Meesit, Director of the Phuket Forest Center, and Thanandorn Phetdee, Senior Forestry Officer, representing the Director-General of the Royal Forest Department. They were joined by Thitichai Siamlek, Deputy District Chief of Mueang Phuket, Pol. Lt. Col. Wiwat Chamnankit, Deputy Chief of Karon Police, and officers from the Phuket Forest Protection Unit. The official notice, signed by Nikorn Sirarojananon, Director-General of the Royal Forest Department, was affixed to the front wall of a building within the disputed area, with representatives of the land occupants present to observe.

According to Mr. Thanandorn, the encroachment at Nui Beach covers more than 15 rai. The demolition order applies to 39 structures, including remnants from earlier removals in 2020, fences obstructing official duties, and 36 additional structures seized in 2024. Since the landholders did not personally acknowledge the order, the posting ensures legal enforcement.

He stated that the occupants must complete demolition by July 9th, 2026. If they fail to comply, forestry officials will proceed with removal, and the occupants will be liable for all state expenses incurred.

This case has a long legal history. In July 2018, forestry officers inspected and seized the area, leading to two criminal convictions under the Forest Act (1941), National Reserved Forest Act (1964), Land Code, and Environmental Quality Act (1992). The Phuket Provincial Court found the defendants guilty, and the Appeal Court Region 8 upheld both rulings. The landholders have since filed appeals with the Supreme Court and lodged a case with the Administrative Court, which remains under review.

The issue escalated in May 2026, when Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin visited Nui Beach following complaints from locals about blocked access and illegal toll collection. His visit came one day after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected the site during a provincial tour.