Politics
Justice Minister Addresses Khao Kradong Land Case Progress
Justice Minister Pol. Lt. Gen. Rutthapon Naowarat has denied allegations of stalling the Khao Kradong land case, citing ongoing procedural requirements.
On August 25, 2026, Justice Minister Pol. Lt. Gen. Rutthapon Naowarat addressed public criticism regarding the Khao Kradong land dispute. Responding to accusations from lawyer Phatthaphong Suphakson—known as 'Lawyer Aun Buriram'—that the Ministry of Justice is intentionally delaying the case, the Minister stated that the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has already forwarded the case file to public prosecutors. According to the Minister, the DSI is currently awaiting a formal conclusion from the Election Commission (EC) as instructed by the prosecutors.
Minister Rutthapon emphasized that the case predates his tenure and denied any personal conflict with the lawyer. He noted that his only prior interaction with the lawyer’s family occurred in 1998 during his time as a police officer, when he arrested the lawyer's father and associates on drug-related charges. The Minister urged the lawyer to refrain from using impolite language, expressing concern about the influence on youth.
For residents and visitors, this case highlights ongoing legal complexities regarding land ownership in Thailand. While the Minister has pledged to monitor the DSI's progress, the final resolution remains dependent on the Election Commission's findings. It is not yet confirmed when the EC will issue its decision or how the outcome will impact the status of the land in question.