Khon kaen: Khon Kaen City Police Station has issued a summons to "Auntie Da," officially known as Ms. Chomnapat Noichan, a descendant of Mr. Hiang Phimsri, along with the owner of a van, to provide statements to investigators. The incident in question involves her leading a group of 30-40 individuals to block access to Wat Pa Adulyaram in the Mueang District of Khon Kaen Province. The group used pipes and cement in an attempt to reclaim 21 rai of land, which has been the focus of a prolonged legal dispute. Authorities are actively tracing the license plate of the cement truck and collecting evidence to press charges against all participants.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Yosawat Kaewsubthanynit, Superintendent of Khon Kaen City Police Station, reported on the case's progress, noting that initial investigations revealed the van involved had license plates registered in Bangkok, while the cement mixer truck is suspected to be from Khon Kaen province. A detailed investigation into the vehicles' ownership is currently in progress. Investigators are also preparing to summon the abbot and other relevant individuals from the temple for further questioning. The collected statements and evidence from the scene will be reviewed before charges are formally filed against those involved.
The conflict originated from Ms. Chomnaphat, also known as Aunt Da, who is an heir of Mr. Hiang Phimsri, the land donor for the temple in 1990. She claimed ownership of the land, alleging the transfer process was not legally finalized, which resulted in a lawsuit. Both the lower court and the appellate court dismissed the case. Following the legal setbacks, a group of men descended on the temple, obstructing its entrance with concrete pipes, pouring concrete, and posting signs that threatened to dismantle the structures within 15 days, prompting the current police intervention.