Authorities in Doi Tao, together with officials from Mae Ping National Park, the Hod–Doi Tao Wildlife Non-Hunting Area, and Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division police, arrested a 39-year-old man suspected of illegally burning forest land near Doi Tao Lake.
The suspect, identified as Pitak, from Khon Kaen province, was apprehended after a concerned citizen reported seeing someone setting fire to forest areas along the lakeshore in Mae Ka, within the boundaries of Mae Ping National Park. The fire produced thick smoke, worsening the ongoing PM2.5 air pollution crisis.
When officials arrived at the scene, they found the suspect sitting in front of a small fire with a lighter, which was seized as evidence. Authorities said the man showed little concern for the law, claiming he was merely burning rubbish. He argued that burning forest debris or vegetation was not illegal as long as the fire did not spread widely.
Officials informed him that Chiang Mai province currently has a strict ban on all forms of open burning until 31st May under provincial orders aimed at tackling seasonal haze pollution.
He was taken into custody and handed over to Doi Tao Police Station to face three serious charges under the Forest Act, the National Park Act, and for violating Chiang Mai’s provincial burning ban.
Although the fire damaged only about 10 square wah of forest land, the suspect will be required to compensate for damages amounting to 68,585 baht. Authorities said the case will serve as an example to deter others from violating the law during the region’s haze crisis.
