NACC Roi Et Integrates Public and Media to Build Network for Forest Protection
The Roi Et Provincial Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission Office is actively addressing the issue of illegal encroachment in the Kham Yai-Kham Khwang National Forest Reserve. This follows the discovery of illegal logging of Siamese rosewood in the Dong Thamle-Don Yai Community Forest Conservation Area. Efforts are underway to build collaborative networks with the public and media to help monitor and prevent illegal activities. NACC emphasized that all relevant state officials must cooperate and avoid creating loopholes for wrongdoers.
Anucha Puengboonsri, Director of the Roi Et NACC Office, stated that on August 15th, 2024, Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, Secretary-General of the NACC, and his team visited the Kham Yai-Kham Khwang National Forest Reserve. They observed clear signs of the destruction of natural resources, prompting the Secretary-General to order immediate action from the NACC Roi Et office to prevent further damage to forest resources in the area. This includes cracking down on government officials who turn a blind eye or collude with illegal logging syndicates. It also involves encouraging public participation in monitoring forest resources and collaborating with officials in preventing and suppressing corruption. Additionally, efforts are being made to push forward community network projects to protect the forest tangibly.
The NACC Roi Et office is expediting the integration of cooperation across all sectors, including local communities through the Strong – Anti-Corruption Club network. They have also organized media relations activities to ensure that the media acts as both a watchdog and a voice for various issues. When reports of forest destruction in Roi Et Province are received, NACC officials promptly investigate the site, preventing prolonged issues. The strong public network actively monitors the situation, deterring influential groups from engaging in illegal activities. Furthermore, state officials have been reminded to perform their duties with integrity and adhere to the law, closing any loopholes that might allow illegal logging to succeed. If any state official is found to be involved, the NACC Roi Et office will swiftly investigate, as per the NACC's policy to protect natural resources from destruction caused by corrupt officials.
