Bangkok Criminal Court Dismisses SLAPP Lawsuit Against Phuket Landowner

On July 24, 2026, the Bangkok Criminal Court dismissed a lawsuit filed by Rungruang Thimabut, the former Deputy Governor of Phuket, against a local landowner. According to Khaosod Online, the former official had accused the landowner of defamation and filing false reports regarding allegations that he solicited a 1-million-baht bribe in exchange for modifying land ownership documents.

In its ruling, the court noted that the plaintiff failed to provide clear evidence of a legitimate loan agreement to explain why the landowner had transferred 1 million baht to an account designated by the official. The court characterized the lawsuit as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), noting that the plaintiff’s legal action appeared to be an attempt to silence the defendant rather than a pursuit of justice. This marks a notable instance of a court identifying and dismissing a case on these grounds.

For residents and expatriates, this case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of administrative conduct and land-related transactions in Phuket. While the court has dismissed this specific lawsuit, the underlying allegations of corruption remain a matter of public record and legal interest. It remains to be confirmed whether further investigations into the alleged bribery will proceed or if the parties will pursue additional legal avenues. Observers should monitor local media for updates on any subsequent administrative or criminal proceedings related to these land document disputes.