Law
Durian Orchard Fire in Phatthalung Sparks Arson Investigation
A Phatthalung durian orchard owner has filed a police report following a fire that caused over 300,000 THB in damages, suspecting arson linked to a neighbor dispute.
On August 11, 2026, Khaosod Online reported that a durian orchard owner in Khuan Maphrao, Phatthalung, filed a formal complaint with the Mueang Phatthalung Police Station following a fire that occurred on August 10. The owners, identified as Mr. Teerathep and Mrs. Naiyana, reported that the blaze destroyed over 70 four-year-old durian trees, along with banana and rose apple trees, resulting in estimated damages exceeding 300,000 THB.
The owners suspect the fire was an act of arson. According to Mr. Teerathep, the incident follows a history of conflict with a neighboring resident. He stated that the neighbor had previously expressed dissatisfaction during land development and had allegedly encroached upon public land. The owners further claimed that the dispute had escalated to physical altercations in the past.
For residents and travelers in the area, this incident highlights a localized property dispute that has resulted in significant agricultural destruction. While the owners have formally requested a police investigation into the suspected arson, the official cause of the fire remains to be confirmed by authorities. No arrests have been reported at this time, and the investigation is ongoing to determine if the fire was indeed intentionally set as alleged by the property owners.