A study of the Mediation of Criminal Disputes in Thailand and the Problem-Solving of the Investigation Officers of the Provincial Police Region 1

Abstract

This research article aims to (1) study the mediation of criminal disputes in Thailand, (2) study the mediation of criminal disputes and problem solving of investigators under the Provincial Police Region 1. The research instruments used were (1) documentary research, which collected data from books, research articles, and related documents from online sources and academic databases, and (2) in-depth interviews, which were designed to collect qualitative data from investigators. The data were analyzed using qualitative research methods.

The findings reveal that the cases entering the mediation process predominantly involve traffic and property-related offenses. In practice, inquiry officials often simplify procedures to ensure expediency and align with actual operational contexts. Key challenges identified include a shortage of mediators, redundant paperwork, and non-compliance with settlement agreements, which necessitates reverting cases to the initial investigation stage, thereby causing significant delays.

The research recommendations include training and encouraging police officers to register as mediators, establishing specialized mediation centers to separate these duties from routine investigations, amending laws to allow for the immediate enforcement of compromise agreements without re-initiating case files, implementing online systems, and adjusting performance evaluation criteria to incentivize inquiry officials. Ultimately, to ensure the efficiency and integrity of the process, the researcher proposes upgrading three key dimensions: legal aspects, by enabling the immediate enforcement of agreements; physical facilities, by providing dedicated and proportionate mediation rooms to build confidence; and personnel, by enhancing skills and adjusting the attitudes of inquiry officials.