Thailand: A Perspective of Transnational Crime Rosa Gomes Henry Kaahanui Marcella Granquist APOC Orientation June 2013

 Definition: A group of 3 or more persons who aim to commit one or more serious offenses in order to achieve some material or financial benefit.  The term covers not only offences committed in more than one State, but also those that take place in one State but are planned or controlled in another. Source: UNTOC, September 2009 Transnational Crime

 Thailand’s War on Drugs started in 2003 resulting in 1000s of deaths.  Special Drug Task Force officers  Corrupt Police  Drug testing in night clubs  Poorly written policies to fight crime  Due process ignored, lack of human rights  Violence, torture and murder of suspects  Harsh penalties - capitol punishment  Haboring fugitives from other countries Current Issues

 Globalization  Economy  Transportation  Communications  Technical Advances  Corruption  Criminal Network Cooperation  Socio-economic  Universal greed for money & power  Fugitives: “Visa on Arrival” Policy abuse Facilitators

 Counterfeit Passports  Drug Traffic  Human Traffic  Prostitution  Dog Smuggling  Illegal Firearms  Money Laundering  CD Counterfeits Criminal Activities

Thailand launches new campaign to fight drug crimes

 Drug Rehabilitation – Eliminating the demand  Small Business – Legitimate alternatives  Agriculture – Land ownership  Tourism – Revisit Visa entry requirements  Improved Governance – Extradition Policy (MOUs)  Border Control – Random cargo inspections  Drug Task Force Center – Good start Policy & Program Options