On November 13, authorities from Lan Sang National Park in Tak Province received a report from a patrol unit about the discovery of 108 blue gallon-sized drums containing an unidentified liquid. The drums were found abandoned approximately 100 meters off the Tak-Mae Sot roadside in Mae Tho Subdistrict. Officials from Lan Sang National Park, senior forestry officer Somchai Vichienkalyarat, and personnel from Tak’s Provincial Industry Office and Environmental Department inspected the scene. Evidence suggested the barrels had been abandoned for some time. The park team subsequently secured the containers and coordinated further examination with relevant agencies.
Later that day, officials from Tak’s Natural Resources and Environment Department confirmed that the substance was hydrochloric acid, classified as a hazardous material under Thailand’s Hazardous Substances Act. This acid can be used in the production of illicit drugs, raising further concerns. Tak’s Industrial Office is preparing a detailed report for the Department of Industrial Works to facilitate a thorough investigation and confirm the acid’s origin. Once completed, authorities will proceed with legal actions.
In a related development, on November 12, police from Mae Tho Station, led by Lt. Col. Amnat Mekin and investigation officer Capt. Kiattisak Bunplong, had also visited the site, collecting evidence for continued investigation.