On the picturesque island of Koh Samui in Surat Thani, authorities have taken decisive action against 21 illegally constructed villas, some of which were occupied by foreign nationals. This enforcement move took place on Tuesday and saw municipal, military, and ombudsman’s representatives converge to post closure notices on the villas perched on the Khao Ma Ngaen mountain in the charming tambon of Bo Phut.
These 21 villas were part of a larger illicit establishment of 46 villas, all constructed without the necessary permits, by three audacious companies in Bo Phut. The breathtaking view from the mountainside may have caught the eye of many, but the authorities were keen to bring an end to this blatant disregard for building regulations and environmental sanctity.
Among the tenants in three of these villas, there was a notable figure—a French entrepreneur running a cleaning business. He revealed that he had secured a one-year lease at the villa, paying 20,000 baht per month. Despite the inconvenience, the tenants exhibited commendable compliance and began vacating the premises promptly.
The remaining villas, though devoid of occupants, had been aggressively marketed as available for lease, catching the interest of potential tenants. However, the allure of residing in these unpermitted abodes was short-lived as the law came knocking.
Col Dusit Kesornkaeo, the dedicated environmental protection chief of the Internal Security Operations Command, shed more light on the situation. On Monday, he confirmed that the construction of all 46 villas was illegal. He elaborated that the closure of these properties proceeded smoothly because none of the parties involved contested the original closure order.
As the mountainside of Khao Ma Ngaen regains its peace, the swift actions of the Surat Thani authorities send a powerful message about the enforcement of building laws and environmental preservation. This picturesque tourist island will continue to be a beacon, not just of beauty, but also of respect for laws and regulations.
The unfolding of these events serves as a reminder that even in paradise, the rule of law must stand firm. It’s a tale of compliance and enforcement wrapped in the scenic vistas of Koh Samui—a story that echoes through the mountains, resonating with the commitment to preserving the island’s natural splendor for generations to come.
I can’t believe people thought they could get away with building illegal villas in such a beautiful place!
Honestly, if the government had stricter regulations and inspections, this wouldn’t have happened in the first place.
True, but at least they took action now. Better late than never.
It’s so sad to see beautiful nature being destroyed because some people can’t follow the rules.
Good! These illegal developments should be stopped. We need to preserve these natural beauties for future generations.
I agree, but what happens to the people who were living there? It’s not their fault they got caught in this mess.
It’s unfortunate, but sometimes when you lease property without checking its legality, it backfires.
They should have researched before moving in, renting without a permit is risky anywhere.
Great point, Anna. Some tenants probably didn’t even know it was illegal.
So what about those companies building these villas? Are they facing any consequences?
I hope so! Letting them get away scot-free would just encourage more illegal constructions.
Absolutely, there should be hefty fines and maybe even jail time for the people in charge.
It’s interesting that none of the involved parties contested the closure order. Maybe they knew they couldn’t win.
They should also dismantle the remaining villas that were still being marketed. Let the hills breathe!
Seems like a classic case of greed ruining a beautiful place. I’m glad the authorities stepped in.
Yes, but how many more of these villas are out there, unchecked?
Good question, Jenny. I hope this sets a precedence and more inspections will follow.
With tourism booming, it’s possible there are many more illegal properties. We need consistent enforcement.
I feel for the tenants, especially the French entrepreneur. He probably had no idea the villa was illegal.
It’s tough but that’s why you need to be thorough with your checks. Moving to a new country comes with risks.
While I support environmental protection, the authorities should make sure there are legal housing options for everyone.
Marie, the problem isn’t a lack of housing options, it’s people wanting to live in privileged locations without following the law.
Question: What do they do with the illegal villas now? Knock them down or make them legal?
Hopefully they knock them down. Making them legal sets a bad example!
It’s a pity to waste resources but sometimes it’s necessary to uphold the law.
Yeah, seeing those resources wasted is a downside but the law is the law.
I wonder how much bribery was involved in getting these villas up in the first place. Something sounds fishy here.
Don’t be surprised if the same companies start another illegal project elsewhere. Some people never learn.
The beautiful landscapes of Koh Samui should be protected at all costs, even if it means shutting down these villas.
What about the environmental damage already done? It’s not like closing these villas will undo it.
The local government should take responsibility too. They let these villas get built in the first place.
The authorities did the right thing, but I hope they have a plan for the future. This kind of negligence shouldn’t happen again.