Bangkok Post(9/6/99)

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<center><bold>Illegal timber linked to extension of Ranong hotel Burmese
troops being paid to help


</bold></center>Ekkarat Mukem - Ranong

Cheewin Sattha - Mae Hong Son


A huge volume of Burmese logs is being smuggled into Ranong, reportedly
for use in the extension of a large hotel in the southern province,
according to a local customs official.


The official said the logs, owned by a Thai firm, were being hauled
across the border in small lots via the Kra Buri checkpoint before being
sent to five sawmills by an influential Thai businessman who says the
timber would be used in the extension of a hotel in Ranong.


The smuggling was being handled with the aid of Burmese troops because
the Thai businessman enjoyed close ties with high-ranking Burmese
military officers, according to the official.


"More logs are being smuggled in because patrol operations by Burmese
government troops are suspended during the rainy season. This makes it
more convenient for log traders to bring timber into Thailand. Burmese
soldiers as well as many Thai officials have been paid to help," the
official said.


A Thai company, with a concession to build a 183km-long road in Burma
from Hill 491 near the border to Kawthaung opposite Ranong, was
reportedly permitted by Rangoon to cut trees along the new route. At
least 12,000 Burmese logs were expected to be smuggled into Thailand by
the firm.


The Fourth Army is seeking information on the log smuggling. The source
said an initial investigation determined the bulk of the logs came from
Burma, but there were concerns some of the logs might have been felled in
Thailand.


Meanwhile in Mae Hong Son, the provincial chamber of commerce chairman
has voiced his support for a bid by four Thai firms to import 1.5 million
cubic metres of Burmese logs.


Poonsal Sunthornpanichkij said both the government and the province would
benefit from the collection of import tariffs.


But he added the four firms-Phon Phana, SA Pharmaceutical, B&F Goodrich
and Songkhroh Sahai Ruan Rop Kaolee-must first prove the logs originated
in Burmese forests.