Problems, Impediments and Guidelines to Improve the Efficiency and Performance of Judicial Investigation Officers

Abstract

The judicial investigation is a critical phase of the criminal justice system. The persons suspected then are under a condition to be taken into the prosecution process in court. The investigation can have a significant impact on the administration of justice. Overall, investigation procedures that are fairly and properly conducted and carried out in accordance with the relevant regulations will benefit the proper delivery of justice on the whole. However, the study reveals a number of overriding obstacles that become main barriers to the standard operating procedure for crime investigation. The nature of the dispute investigation process may occur from these following factors: the relevant officers working alone; the entire process is carried out without checks and balances by other institutions; absence of participatory monitoring of officials’ performance of their duties from the public sector commission; partial or incomplete evidence; and compensation unsuited for service in the field. Guidelines and recommendations to address the issues are as follows: firstly, the Royal Thai Police Headquarters should establish the Investigation Procedure Manual to serve as guidelines to assist related officers. Secondly, the merit-based principle and transparency measures should be applied for the recruitment of qualified candidates for investigation officer positions. Finally, measures to support increased welfare and career progression are recommended. Such implementation will promote official morale, ensuring that the judicial integrity alongside effective, fair and transparent investigation procedures will be enhanced at all times.