The arrest took place during the clearing of illegal businesses along the Surin beachfront yesterday (May 15).
The operation, under the direction of Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, was carried out by a high-level team of provincial, district and forestry officials to inspect and reclaim land being used unlawfully.
The team targeted the ‘Tukta Food and Drink’ shop on the beachfront. Officials found that the business was operating on about 0-1-71 rai of public land, an encroachment in violation of the Forestry Act of 1941.
The woman, identified in official reports only as ‘Ms A, claimed to be the owner of the shop, was taken into custody and handed over to officers at Cherng Talay Police Station for legal proceedings.
Officials said the woman faces charges for clearing or occupying forest land without permission ‒ a serious offense under the Forestry Act.
The operation forms part of a broader campaign to reclaim Surin Beach, which entered its second day yesterday. From 9am to 2pm, teams worked to remove unauthorised buildings, belongings and structures from the beach area.
According to the Thalang District Office, the operation is now more than 50% complete and will continue until all encroaching businesses have been removed.
Authorities reported full cooperation from business operators so far and reaffirmed their goal of returning the beach to full public use.