Wildlife investigation guidelines at Don Mueang international airport wildlife inspection

Abstract

This article aims to examine the wildlife crime investigation process undertaken by the Wildlife inspection at Don Mueang International Airport and to propose guidelines for improving investigative practices through the application of appropriate techniques, tools, and technologies in order to enhance operational effectiveness. The study is based on data collected from field observations, relevant documents, academic articles, and research studies, as well as statistical data from agencies related to wildlife criminology, criminal investigation, applicable legal frameworks, and the wildlife trade situation in Thailand. Particular attention is given to analyzing the roles and responsibilities of the Wildlife inspection at Don Mueang International Airport in enforcing wildlife crime cases under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act, B.E.2562 (2019) The findings present an overview of the current wildlife crime investigation process, which can be categorized into three phases: the pre-incident phase, the incident phase, and the post-incident phase. Emphasis is placed on investigative procedures during the incident phase, alongside a comparative analysis highlighting the structural and operational differences between wildlife trafficking through international airports and wildlife trade along land border areas. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis. The analysis reveals that the Wildlife inspection at Don Mueang International Airport has a critical need to develop standardized investigative guidelines, particularly in the systematic use of techniques, tools, and technologies. Such development is essential for strengthening the efficiency of prevention and suppression efforts against the illegal export of wildlife beyond the borders of the Kingdom of Thailand in a systematic and sustainable manner.