A special operations unit of the National Parks and Wildlife Department led raids on two coffee shops allegedly built illegally within the boundary of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park this morning, Jan. 16.
The “Phaya Suea” Task Force unit first visited then seized the Neo Cafe in Baan Chiang Kian, Moo 1 Chang Phueak. Some of the land was found to be registered to a Mrs. Sudaporn Laksiri but GPS measurements at the site showed that the cafe encroached into protected forest beyond the legal boundary.
The second raid targeted the Wild Coffee and Bistro, also in Moo 1 Chang Phueak. The owner was found to not have any land ownership documents at all with the premise also seized.
Both cafe owners are now accused of breaching a protected forest area and illegally confiscating land. The accused were taken to Phuping Ratchaniwet Police Station to be formally charged.
Photo: Chiang Mai News
