On 18/4, park rangers from Chat Trakan waterfall National Park were on patrol following numerous reports of fires. They encountered a suspicious young man carrying a lighter and took him in for questioning. He was later identified as Matina, 22.

“I just wanted to have fun. I had nothing to do, so I started a fire to attract the rangers to put it out. I just acted thoughtlessly,” the youth stated.

Matina (right) - the idle youth who burned the forest for fun, recently arrested. Photo: *Thaiger*.

Park rangers transferred Matina to Chat Trakan police station for legal proceedings concerning damage to natural resources. He remains in custody, though officials have not yet disclosed the potential penalties he faces.

Officials reported that several northern provinces are under close monitoring due to ongoing forest fires. Residents are advised against burning agricultural waste or trash to minimize pollution.

According to KhaoSod, authorities in Nan arrested 22 suspects for outdoor burning on the same day. Since 30/1, a total of 105 suspects have been identified in similar incidents in the province, each fined 1,000 THB.

The Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in Western Thailand, bordering Myanmar. Recognized as Thailand's largest national park, it spans approximately 2,914 km2 and is home to numerous endangered animal species.

By Hai Thu (Source: Thaiger)