Acting on behalf of the Rawai sea gypsy community, Mr Niran Yungpaan, yesterday visited DSI deputy-general Pol Col Paisit Wongmuang, who was leading an investigation into encroached mangroves at the Ban Kuku Mangrove Conservation Group in Rasada.
“I submitted a letter to the DSI chief asking [for them] to audit the documents of Baron World Trade company used to claim land occupied[by sea gypsies] for more than 300 years, which covers access to the Balai shrine, a place used for worship, and a place [nearby] used to anchor boats to seek refuge from monsoons.
“After talking with Pol Col Phaisit, I understand that the DSI is in the process of analyzing aerial images [of the disputed land] which is nearly complete, and they will be on site next week to inspect further,” said Mr Niran.
Mr Niran went on to report that the situation has been "normal" for the past week at the site of the contested path, since a rock-throwing confrontation flared up on May 25 between villagers and workers presumed to be working for Baron World Trade company.
“Villagers are taking turns guarding the back hoe to stop workers [from Baron co] taking it away , which they won't allow until the large boulders are removed from the path. There haven't been any movements from the workers,” he said.
The DSI in 2014 assisted Rawa sea gypsies in gathering DNA evidence, as well as compiling aerial photography and school records as evidence to help them build their case.