A 55-year-old man has been arrested for illegally collecting rocks in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen.
Phisit Charoensuk, chief of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, said the arrest was made on 3 June after a joint operation involving park rangers from Patrol Units 1 to 3, officers from the Forest Protection Division (Units 2 and 3, Conservation Office 3, Phetchaburi Branch), and police from Subdivision 5 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division.
The suspect, identified only as Mr Mana from Prachuap Khiri Khan, was apprehended near Wat Phuttha Utthayan Tham Ko Phai in Moo 5, Rai Mai subdistrict, Sam Roi Yot district. He was found in possession of approximately 25 kilogrammes of rock fragments, a small sledgehammer, and a machete.
Authorities acted after receiving a report that someone had been seen collecting rocks from the mountain in the national park. Officers set up an ambush at the specified location, where they found Mr Mana carrying a fertiliser sack adapted as a backpack. Inside, they discovered the rocks and tools. The suspect admitted to entering the park without permission to collect the rocks.
Park officials said the suspect’s actions violated the National Park Act B.E. 2562 (2019), specifically Sections 19 (2) and (6), which prohibit the removal of natural resources from protected areas. A formal arrest report was filed, and Mr Mana is expected to be fined at the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park office.
Officials said the case highlights the importance of public cooperation in helping to protect natural resources. It also reflects the current policy of Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, who has directed authorities to strengthen enforcement against encroachment into national parks and forest areas.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected illegal activity in protected areas by contacting local authorities or calling the Forest Protection Hotline on 1362.