Officers have scheduled additional questioning of victims on Mar 5, with witnesses also set to provide further testimonies.
Pol Lt Col Ekkasak Kwanwan, Senior Inspector (Investigation) at Karon Police, who is handling the case, told The Phuket News that the process is ongoing, and before suspects can be called in for questioning, it is crucial to gather thorough statements from accusing witnesses.
“This case is highly sensitive, and we need to ensure that every individual’s testimony aligns with the allegations,” he said.
“On the day of the flood [and landslide], there were confirmed injuries, deaths and property damage. However, whether legal actions will be taken depends on the evidence and witness statements we collect,” he added.
The Phuket Provincial Lawyers Council has been actively involved in the process.
Due to scheduling constraints with legal representatives, progress has been slow, but Pol Lt Col Ekkasak emphasises that questioning appointments are ongoing and coordination remains consistent.
Next week on Wednesday (Mar 5) set as the next key date for additional witness testimonies, investigators are working to gather all necessary information and piece together a complete picture of the case.
Once they have sufficient details from witnesses, they will proceed with summoning the accused for questioning to ensure a thorough and fair investigation, Lt Col Ekkasak said.
Lt Col Ekkasak said.said officials remain committed to conducting a detailed and transparent inquiry into the landslide’s impact and legal implications.
In January, a report by the Department of Mineral Resources investigation into the landslide in Kata on Aug 23 last year listed the new parking lot and nearby restroom constructed at the Big Buddha Viewpoint as factors that contributed to the cause of the deadly landslide.