Miss. Code Ann. § 29-1-17: Miss. Code Ann. § 29-1-17

It is the duty of the land commissioner to see that trespasses be not committed on the public lands; and for that purpose he may cause all necessary inquiries and investigations to be made. He shall cause the proper suits to be instituted and prosecuted for the recovery of possession of any public land adversely held by any person, and for damages against any person trespassing thereon.