Contractor Confirms Construction of Shooting Range on Disputed Phuket Trail
A contractor has admitted to building a shooting range alongside a trail in Phuket, amid allegations of forest reserve encroachment involving the husband of celebrity Panadda 'Boom' Wongphudee.
On October 31, 2026, a contractor identified as 'Chang Ae' (Mr. Apichart) publicly confirmed his involvement in construction projects located in the Kathu district of Phuket. Speaking to Khaosod Online, the contractor stated that he was hired to build a trail and a shooting range on the same plot of land. This development follows public allegations made by Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, a former head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, who claimed that a national forest reserve had been encroached upon to facilitate these structures.
Chang Ae asserted that he acted under the instructions of the husband of celebrity Panadda 'Boom' Wongphudee, identified as 'Got.' According to the contractor, he was shown 'Por Bor Tor 5' land documents, which led him to believe the construction was legitimate. He further claimed that Panadda had visited a pool villa construction site in Phuket, stating he possesses photographic evidence to support this. The contractor is currently gathering documentation to provide to his legal counsel, Decha Kittiwittayanan, and has called for the parties involved to clarify the situation.
For residents and visitors, this case highlights ongoing scrutiny regarding land use and potential environmental encroachment in Phuket. While the contractor has provided his account, the legal status of the land and the validity of the documents presented remain subject to official investigation and verification by relevant authorities.
