CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION IN DRUG-RELATED CASES IN THAILAND: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF INVESTIGATIVE AND FORENSIC PRACTICES WITH REFERENCE TO INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) Examine crime scene investigation practices in drug-related cases among investigative and forensic science units in Thailand; 2) Analyze operational gaps in Thailand’s practices with reference to international standards; and 3) Propose an integrated approach to crime scene investigation and evidence collection in drug-related cases. The study employed a qualitative research design using documentary research on relevant laws and standards related to crime scene investigation in drug-related cases, together with in-depth interviews with 30 practitioners in investigation, inquiry, and forensic science. The findings revealed that 1) Investigative and forensic science units differ in their operational approaches, with investigative units emphasizing case expansion, whereas forensic science units prioritizing the accuracy and integrity of scientific procedures; 2) Major operational gaps include variations in crime scene control, differences in search and evidence collection procedures, inconsistent documentation practices, weaknesses in the chain of custody, the absence of a formal joint operational system for interagency coordination, and the lack of intelligence-based practices linking evidentiary information to a centralized database; and 3) Effective integration of crime scene investigation in drug-related cases in Thailand should include standardized operating procedures, a unified command structure, joint training between investigative and forensic personnel, digital systems for evidence tracking, and the development of a national narcotics database linking relevant agencies within the justice process. These measures would improve the efficiency of crime scene investigation and strengthen support for the criminal justice process in drug-related cases in Thailand.