"Doi Pui Community" is the subject. accepts responsibility and apologizes for cutting "Nang Phaya Seua Khrong" trees. in a historically significant area and agrees to "Doi Suthep-Pui National Park" proceed with legal action transparently.
Following complaints from residents after a group was found cutting "Nang Phaya Seua Khrong" trees or "Thai Sakura" trees within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park near the Hmong village of Doi Pui, an area of historical and emotional significance for Chiang Mai residents because King Rama IX once conducted royal duties there. The trees were planted over 20 years ago to honor and show loyalty to the King.
On 26 Oct 2026, police from Phuping Police Station, officials from Protected Areas Regional Office 16, the head of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, and officials from Suthep Municipality visited the Hmong village of Doi Pui, Moo 11, Suthep subdistrict, to question witnesses and gather more evidence after the incident on 13 Oct.
Initial inquiries found that a volunteer group, including local and outside residents, verbally requested permission to improve the landscape. Officials believed this was for cleaning and grass clearing, not tree cutting. However, 15 trees were cut, including 11 Nang Phaya Seua Khrong trees, before images of the incident spread online, sparking public criticism.
Mr. Methaphan Phuchakritsada, headman of Suthep subdistrict, said the incident was abnormal because residents know the area is in a national park, and any tree or forest activity must be authorized by officials. He admitted there might have been lax oversight on the day of the incident.
Speaking on behalf of the Hmong villagers of Doi Pui, he expressed regret and apologized to the public for causing concern, affirming the community's willingness to cooperate in resolving the issue and restoring the area. He urged relevant agencies to investigate the facts and enforce the law.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kritsiam Kongsatri, director of Protected Areas Regional Office 16, revealed officials found 15 mature trees cut and processed into 46 logs, including 11 Nang Phaya Seua Khrong trees totaling 40 logs. Police preliminary investigations identified seven people involved in the tree cutting.
He confirmed officials will enforce the law impartially and are not involved politically. Those responsible claimed to be improving the landscape but exceeded the agreed scope by cutting trees. Even trees planted within the national park cannot be cut without permission. The investigation will extend to those involved and ordering the action.
Mr. Surachet Takamma, mayor of Suthep Municipality, said the municipality received complaints and assigned legal staff to verify facts from social media images. They confirmed the vests seen in the photos belong to the municipality and have forwarded information and evidence to the park chief. Further details are under investigation.
He emphasized that permanent municipal staff were not involved and requested the investigation proceed properly. Plans are underway to restore the area promptly, as Doi Pui is a key tourist destination linked to the community economy. Tourists are still encouraged to visit and experience Doi Pui's culture as usual.
Authorities will collect evidence and prosecute those responsible according to the law while considering ways to restore the affected area.