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Published on October 20, 2007

"I know the case is in the public interest and expect to conclude it as quickly as possible and before the election," he said.

Forestry Department chief Wichai Laemwilai has received a report from the National Legislative Assembly's committee on police and justice and would treat it as evidence.

It was complicated to determine whether Surayud Chulanont had the right to use the land, which is part of the national reserve in Nakhon Ratchasima, he said.

There are myriad land use disputes nationwide and authorities have to avoid setting a wrong precedent for villagers, he said.

Committee aide Chumphol Sangthong met Wichai to discuss the findings and exchange views.

After checking with the Army Cartography Department, Chumphol was certain Surayud had encroached on the reserve.

The committee would complete its job by Wednesday, and authorities could then launch legal proceedings against Surayud, he said.

The Nation