Ubon ratchathani: The Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NRECD) and the Royal Forest Department have initiated an inspection of a resort owned by ‘Johnny the Enforcer’ to determine if it has unlawfully encroached on the Lam Dom Noi Self-Reliant Settlement.

According to Thai News Agency, the investigation was prompted by a complaint filed by the Department of Social Development and Welfare, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, which presented documentary evidence suggesting that Johnny the Enforcer’s resort has encroached upon approximately 1 rai or more of the Lam Dom Noi Self-Help Settlement Area. The Land Development Department had previously issued a warning letter in 2022 regarding this encroachment.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, stated that a task force has been deployed to probe the matter, particularly focusing on the unusual wealth and discipline associated with Johnny the Enforcer. Pol. Lt. Gen. Wattana Yijin, commander of Provincial Police Region 3, will also be participating in the investigation. Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Division is examining the unusual wealth aspect.

Officials, in collaboration with the Royal Forest Department and the director of the Lam Dom Noi Self-Help Settlement in Ubon Ratchathani Province, have commenced a thorough investigation into the alleged encroachment, which is said to involve a forest area reserved for more than 20% of the settlement.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities are also scrutinizing the involvement of state officials, village headmen, and sub-district headmen who may have authorized the construction on the disputed land. The investigation aims to ascertain the facts surrounding the encroachment.

In response to queries about potential harassment due to Johnny the Enforcer’s influencer status, Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat emphasized that government officials are obligated to enforce the law impartially. He reiterated that no individual is above the law and that the Central Investigation Bureau is committed to fair and unbiased enforcement, ensuring legal compliance by all parties involved.