House Panel Examines Lawsuit Against Journalist Over Prachin Buri Projects The House Committee on Political Development, Mass Communications and Public Participation on Thursday called for an investigation into four excavation projects in Prachin Buri after a journalist who raised concerns about their operations was sued and allegedly harassed. Workpoint News editor Pornthip "Jeab" Mongyai told the committee that oversight of resources removed under the “excavate soil in exchange for water” projects in Na Di district appeared inadequate. An expert assessment put the potential value of washed sand from the four projects at about 515 million baht, although this was based on approved project volumes rather than confirmed extraction. The National Anti-Corruption Commission said it was examining project approvals, excavation volumes and whether private operators had improperly benefited from state resources. It has conducted site inspections, depth measurements and aerial-image analysis but has yet to determine any damage or the amount of material removed. The committee also urged stronger anti-SLAPP protections for journalists and corruption whistleblowers. Members warned that existing safeguards may not cover people sued before they report information to the NACC and proposed allowing prosecutors to dismiss apparent SLAPP cases before they reach court. #Thailand# #โครงการขุดดินแลกน้ำ# #SLAPP#