The Competency Development of Inquiry Officers, the Royal Thai Police

Abstract

This research article examines (1) the competency level of the inquiry officers of the Royal Thai Police; investigates (2) the problems and obstacles in developing the competencies of the inquiry officers under study; and proposes (3) guidelines for developing the competencies of the inquiry officers under investigation. The mixed-methods research approach was employed. In the quantitative research, data were collected using a questionnaire with 360 members of the sample population. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. In the qualitative research, data were collected using the techniques of in-depth interview and focus group discussion with thirty-two key informants. Data were analyzed using the technique of content analysis. Findings are as follows: (1) The competencies of the inquiry officers under study overall and in each aspect were at a moderate level. (2) The problems and obstacles in developing the competencies of the inquiry officers under investigation were as follows: (2.1) External factors included interference in investigations and personnel transfers; an increasing number of cases; the lack of the public trust and cooperation; and a shortage of information technology in the aspects of skills and equipment. (2.2) Internal factors included a centralized organizational structure resulting in the lack of flexibility; inefficient organizational strategies for administering justice; an investigation system not facilitating agility; insufficient and inappropriate management of the inquiry officer positions; leaders lacking vision and case management skills; inquiry officers lacking good motivation in performing their duties. (3) Guidelines for developing the competencies of the inquiry officers of the Royal Thai Police are as follows: (3.1) knowledge competencies i.e. knowledge of law and the justice process; (3.2) skill competencies i.e. the use of technology, conflict management, and communication; (3.3) behavioral competencies i.e. honesty, teamwork, and adaptability; and (3.4) leadership competencies i.e. decision making in crisis situations and supporting members of the investigation team. The researcher developed a strategic model as a key tool for organizations to use in planning, setting long-term direction, and analyzing situations through the I-N-Q-U-I-R-Y model in order to elevate the skills of the inquiry officers of the Royal Thai Police from the inquiry officers to justice professionals. The model includes an integration of the information and technology, a networking of interprofessional collaboration, quality-based case files, unbiased discretion, innovation of the inquiry process, resilience and psychological well-being, and yielding justice as an ultimate goal.