The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) conducted a field operation to promote the "Phangan Model," joining forces with Surat Thani province to launch proactive enforcement aimed at curbing transnational nominee networks and public land encroachment.
On 16 July 2026, reporters reported that on 15 July 2026, Mr. Phuthep Taweechotthanakul, Deputy Secretary-General of the NACC Region 8, together with Surat Thani province and related agencies, visited Koh Phangan to verify facts, gather data, and integrate cooperation among all sectors before analyzing results and setting long-term anti-corruption measures and enhancing law enforcement efficiency.
During the inspection, key complaints were found on Koh Phangan. At location 1, within Koh Phangan municipality, unauthorized earth excavation was discovered, with suspicions of encroachment into forest areas. This activity has been ongoing for an extended period. Following this inspection, Koh Phangan municipality filed a complaint with the police to initiate legal proceedings and coordinated with relevant agencies to verify boundaries and facts further.
At location 2, within Phet Phangan municipality, unauthorized earth excavation was also found, with initial checks confirming clear encroachment into forest land. The forestry agency has already filed legal complaints, and likewise, Phet Phangan municipality has lodged complaints with the police. Meanwhile, allegations of improper land title issuance are under investigation; if illegal acts are confirmed, legal procedures will follow.
At location 3, a resort in Phet Phangan municipality was reported for encroaching on the beach and filling in a public canal. Preliminary checks revealed that the owner lacks legal land ownership documents. Subsequently, the Marine Department will further investigate the encroachment on the beach and canal to determine any legal violations and will act accordingly within its authority.
At location 4, a private childcare center was found to be operating beyond its licensed capacity. Reports stated that military, police, and administrative officers raided the center on 1 May 2026, discovering 89 children cared for, exceeding the authorized number by 18. The Social Development and Human Security Office ordered a temporary suspension until approval from the Surat Thani governor for any changes was granted. On 14 July 2026, the license to operate was officially revoked.
At location 5, a yoga business owned by foreigners holding land was found operating. The Koh Phangan police coordinated with Koh Phangan municipality, which had issued a license for a business hazardous to health to a legal entity valid until 7 January 2027, to suspend the license temporarily during ongoing legal proceedings and ordered cessation of business operations. This will serve as a guideline for handling other nominee cases under prosecution.
The Surat Thani governor emphasized that all relevant agencies must expedite investigations, gather evidence, and perform duties within their authority to complete the work within 30 days. Reports on progress must be submitted to the province to ensure law enforcement is effective, transparent, and capable of solving problems concretely.