The Development of Mediation Efficiency in Criminal Dispute Resolutions as Interrogation Order: A Case Study of Metropolitan Police

Abstract

The research titled “The Development of Mediation Efficiency in Criminal Dispute Resolutions as Interrogation Order: A Case Study of Metropolitan Police” is a Qualitative Research aiming to study the current problems, obstacles, and guidelines for developing the efficiency of criminal mediation processes within the Metropolitan Police Bureau area. The study employed in-depth interviews as the primary data collection tool, utilizing Purposive Sampling to select the target groups. The total number of informants was 20, consisting of: Superintendents or Heads of Investigation (3 persons), Investigating Officers (3 persons), Disputing Parties who voluntarily requested mediation (6 persons), Mediators (3 persons), Community Chairpersons (3 persons), and Practitioners or Academics specializing in Restorative Justice (2 persons). The research findings indicate that the significant problems and obstacles encountered in criminal dispute mediation within the Metropolitan Police Bureau area are divided into five main issues: problems arising from 1) Investigating Officers, 2) Criminal Mediators, 3) Disputing Parties, 4) Complex documents and forms, and 5) the Mediation Act B.E. 2562 (2019), specifically concerning the statute of limitations used in mediation. Consequently, guidelines for appropriate problem-solving and efficiency development are proposed as follows: 1) Develop the efficiency of Investigating Officers and Mediators in terms of knowledge and skills,          2) Integrate technology systems into the mediation process, 3) Foster collaboration (integration) among related agencies, and 4) Develop relevant legislation, particularly by amending the statute of limitations to be suitable and consistent with civil cases, ensuring sufficient time for the injured party to proceed with the mediation process.