Bangkok: Investigations are underway regarding mysterious funding contributing to the encroachment and destruction of forest and mountain areas on Koh Phangan, a growing concern linked to uncontrolled tourism development. In addition to this, there is an ongoing issue of foreigners reportedly using Thai nationals as nominees to hold land for business purposes on the island.
According to Thai News Agency, the National Anti-Corruption Commission Region 8 recently visited Koh Phangan to address these issues. The commission has urged local authorities to swiftly take action by arresting offenders involved in the illegal land encroachments and to report their findings within 30 days. This visit highlights the urgency of protecting Koh Phangan's natural resources amid the pressures of tourism growth.