Bueng kan: The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) recently conducted a raid in Bueng Kan province to address ongoing issues of bribery and tax evasion within the sand dredging industry. The operation targeted sand dredging activities in Dong Bang Subdistrict, Bueng Khong Long District, where operators have long neglected tax payments, resulting in significant financial damage to the government.
According to Thai News Agency, the NACC's office in Nakhon Phanom, acting as the director for the Bueng Kan office, collaborated with related agencies to inspect and enforce laws concerning sand dredging and natural resource activities in Area 4. Mr. Narawich Matarach, Head of the Anti-Corruption Group, highlighted the complexity of obtaining permits for sand dredging, which involves navigating multiple laws and approval processes. This complexity has led some operators to bypass legal procedures, engage in unauthorized dredging, and potentially bribe officials to evade consequences. In Dong Bang Subdistrict, it was discovered that operators have not paid compensation for sand dredging to local government revenue officials, causing financial losses for the state.
The inspection aimed to ensure compliance with laws governing sand dredging and natural resource activities, address complaints about discretionary approval powers, improve law enforcement effectiveness, and enhance transparency regarding site coordinates and license status. Sand quarry operators were urged to adhere to legal requirements, including tax payments, and showed willingness to comply.
Mr. Chusak Wasan, mayor of the Dong Bang Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO), reported that out of seven sand quarry operators in the area, five remain active. For the past four years, these operators have failed to pay taxes, hindering state revenue and subdistrict development opportunities. The SAO has issued letters to the operators, demanding payment of overdue land use taxes, with a final notification deadline set for June 26, 2026. Failure to comply will result in police reports and legal action.