The news comes as Karon Police confirm that they are now investigating the deaths of the 13 killed in the landslide.
Pol Lt Col Ekkasak Kwanwan, Senior Inspector (Investigation) at Karon Police, who is handling the case, explained, “The police have accepted the complaint from the victims’ representatives, accusing the foundation and its president of negligence, which led to the deaths and injuries.”
However, he added, “I need to conduct further questioning from both sides, as the complaint was only filed on Dec 26.
“More evidence has been submitted by the victims’ representatives, so before we call the Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkol Sattha Foundation 45 and its president, Suporn Wanichkul, we need to hear from them first and look at the evident that they submitted to us,” he added.
Pol Lt Col Ekkasak did not explain why Karon Police were not already investigating the deaths of 13 people in the police station’s area of jurisdiction, despite the same report being presented to the Phuket Governor, Sophon Suwannarat, on Dec 20.
Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee has shared the Department of Mineral Resources’ Landslide Inspection Report with the Governor of Phuket, providing an in-depth analysis of the landslide in Karon.
The document was received on Nov 28, under complaint ‘No. 145’ accepted by the Phuket Damrongdhama Centre (Phuket Provincial Ombudsman’s Office).
The investigation report outlined several key factors that led to the landslide, with one of the main points being the impact of development projects in the area.
The new parking lot and restroom constructed at the Big BUddha Viewpoint were listed among the contributing factors.
“These alterations could have compromised the area’s stability, contributing to the disaster,” the report said.
The Department of Mineral Resources Region 4 Office has submitted the report to the relevant authorities to address the issue and to take measures to mitigate the risks of future landslides, MP Chalermpong noted.
The document includes actions taken so far and recommends further steps to improve the area’s safety, he said.
“We will continue to fight for justice for those affected by the loss. We are committed to gathering all possible evidence to bring about accountability for those responsible,” MP Chalermpong stated.