PUBLISHED : 7 Feb 2025 at 06:10
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is currently advancing its investigation into the ongoing land dispute between the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and the Department of Lands (DoL) involving approximately 5,000 rai of land in Buri Ram. While the investigation is making headway, officials have indicated that it is still premature to determine a conclusion date.
Mongkol Srisawang, NACC’s director overseeing environmental and natural resources investigations, stated that the agency is meticulously reviewing evidence provided by both disputing parties. This includes recent ownership documents, historical records, and testimonies from witnesses.
The NACC has identified multiple discrepancies within the submitted documents from both the SRT and DoL. Investigators are now examining whether these irregularities stem from intentional misconduct by officials involved in the case.
“Should we find that these discrepancies were purposefully created, those officials may face criminal charges for dereliction of duty,” said Mongkol.
The dispute revolves around 900 land title deeds, of which 12 are reportedly connected to the Chidchob family. The family’s patriarch, Newin Chidchob, is recognized as the de facto leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, currently led by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
The SRT asserts ownership of the land, particularly situated in Khao Kradong and encompassing around 5,083 rai, a claim supported by a Supreme Court ruling affirming the land belongs to the agency.
Consequently, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit insists that the DoL must nullify the existing land titles and transfer the properties to the SRT. Non-compliance could expose SRT officials to charges of dereliction of duty.
Contrarily, the DoL, under the Interior Ministry, has rejected these claims. Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri contended that the SRT’s assertions are incorrect. He further stated that over 400 villagers from two sub-districts—Isan and Samet—in Muang district possess land title deeds that support their ownership rights.
Meanwhile, Anutin has urged all parties involved to await the Supreme Administrative Court’s forthcoming decision on the matter.
