Phuket: Two Deputy Ministers of Interior visited 'Freedom Beach' after residents complained about being charged fees to access the beach. Deputy Interior Ministers Polpeerapong Worasit led a delegation to the area to follow up on the issue of encroachment and unauthorized claims to Freedom Beach in Phuket. They ordered a speedy verification of land title documents and pledged to support the government's policy of cracking down on influential figures and sustainably improving the quality of life for the people.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Mr. Polpeera Suwannachawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, along with Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, Deputy Minister of Interior, and a delegation of heads of relevant government agencies in Phuket Province, visited Freedom Beach in Kathu District, Phuket Province to listen to the problems regarding encroachment on the area. This was in accordance with the instructions of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who emphasized the need for thorough investigation to ensure all actions are in compliance with the law. He stressed that what is right must be acknowledged, and what is wrong must be dealt with accordingly. The Ministry of Interior was instructed to enhance security throughout Phuket Province, expedite the maintenance of peace and order, suppress influential figures and related problems in the area, and promptly investigate any instances of intimidation to ensure justice is served and per petrators are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Ms. Ploytalay stated that the purpose of the two Deputy Ministers of Interior's visit to Freedom Beach was to understand the problems arising from local residents charging fees for beach access, setting up beach umbrellas, and claiming ownership of land title deeds (Nor Sor 3). According to reports from local government agencies, the area in question belongs to the government, with boundaries indicating areas under the Forestry Department and the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO), and no Nor Sor 3 title deeds have been issued. The Director-General of the Department of Land has been assigned to conduct a detailed investigation.
General Peer said he promised to ensure Phuket's sustainability through the people of Phuket themselves. He asked the public not to worry about government interference in their lives, stating that they are only helping to conduct their businesses legally and facilitating the process. If everything is done correctly, without extortion or illegal activities, the government is ready to be a key supporter in improving the quality of life, ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of the people of Phuket.
Mr. Worasit stated that the working group will closely and continuously monitor the performance of all relevant agencies to ensure that Freedom Beach and other public areas in Phuket are reclaimed and sustainably organized. The ultimate goal is not just law enforcement, but also to improve the quality of life for community members, enabling them to earn a living equally, safely, and without exploitation. At the same time, the Ministry of Interior will continue to crack down on influential groups and corruption rings to restore peace and order and build genuine confidence among both local residents and tourists.