Freedom Beach, a secluded stretch near Patong Beach, boasts 300 metres of fine white sand and clear turquoise water. The inspection team was led by Phuket deputy governor Rungrueng Thimabut and included police, forestry officers, local administrative officials, and affected communities. Chalermpong Saengdee, a People's Party MP for Phuket, along with officials from the Patong and Karon municipalities, also joined the inspection. The overlapping municipal boundaries of Patong and Karon, however, have complicated enforcement efforts, as local authorities have limited jurisdiction to issue demolition orders for unauthorised buildings spanning multiple zones. "Areas such as Freedom Beach are vital watershed forests and invaluable national resources.

Source: Bangkok Post April 02, 2026 03:46 UTC