Buriram: The House Committee on Military Affairs has launched an investigation into the construction of a military camp near Khao Kradong, following concerns that the camp was built at an incorrect location, raising suspicions of potential land mismanagement or even a curse. Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a party-list MP from the Prachachon Party and chairman of the committee, expressed his confusion over the issue and emphasized the need for aerial photographs to verify the original construction site, which was supposed to be blocked off for railway purposes. The committee plans to forward the findings to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and other inspectors for further investigation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj revealed that the Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasatsuek Camp, also known as R. 23, 4, was intended to be built in the NS 4130 area, spanning approximately 400 rai. However, the camp is currently located in a different area about 2 kilometers away, which also hosts a golf course. T
his deviation has led to questions about why the camp was not constructed in the designated area, especially since the land, previously contested in a legal battle, was ultimately ruled to belong to the State Railway of Thailand.
Mr. Wiroj raised concerns over the presence of the golf course, which falls under the jurisdiction of the 26th Military District and is managed by the army for its welfare. He questioned the decision to move the camp away from the original site, suggesting that if the land was suitable for a military camp, it should have been used as such. The golf course, only recently registered in 2023, has further fueled suspicions about the management of off-budget funds.
During the committee meeting, Mr. Wiroj emphasized the need to determine whether the camp was indeed constructed in the correct location. The original land title deed, N.S.L. 4130/2515, specified the permitted area, but the camp was built on N.S.L. land at Bor. 3239, for which permission was only granted in 2000. This discre
pancy has led to a potential connection with a recent highway construction case, where the State Railway of Thailand had to reclaim rental fees due to encroachment on its land.
When questioned about the involvement of a prominent family in Buriram, Mr. Wiroj refrained from making direct accusations but acknowledged that the origins of the land could be linked to them. He stressed the importance of verifying the legitimacy of the land title deeds and ensuring the military camp was built in the correct location. He humorously speculated whether supernatural forces or astrological predictions might have influenced the decision to relocate the camp.
Mr. Wiroj assured that the committee is committed to uncovering the truth and will forward any evidence to the Ombudsman for further investigation. The NACC is urged to monitor the case closely to identify any potential negligence by government agencies or state enterprises, including the State Railway of Thailand and the Land Department. The investigation aims to c
larify the situation and rectify any discrepancies in the camp’s placement, ensuring that the military’s interests are safeguarded.