Loophole enables illegal land transfers in Thailand provinces

The National Land Policy Committee (NLPC) has recognized a loophole in its regulations that has allowed illegal land transfers, especially in areas designated for the poor. Investigations revealed that land in Chachoengsao and Chanthaburi provinces was sold to outsiders, violating existing rules. The NLPC's director stated that legal action will be taken against those involved, including revoking access to state-owned land. A significant plot in Chanthaburi is no longer under NLPC control due to coordination issues with the Department of Royal Forests. Currently, a monitoring platform for land use is not implemented in areas managed by the Department of Royal Forests, leaving over 4.4 million rai of land untracked. The NLPC aims to improve cooperation and information sharing to prevent further illegal transfers.