GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING MEASURES TO INTERCEPT THE CROSS-BORDER TRAFFICKING OF NARCOTICS BY TRANSNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME: A CASE STUDY OF THAILAND'S INTERNATIONAL WATER AND AIR TRANSPORTATION

Abstract

This research provides an overview of transnational organized crime involved in cross-border narcotics trafficking via international maritime and air routes in Thailand. It examines major challenges and proposes strategic measures to enhance interception efforts. Using a qualitative approach, the study draws on in-depth interviews with law enforcement and international organization representatives, along with documentary research on Thailand’s legal frameworks for drug control. Findings reveal that trafficking networks are highly complex and adaptive, continuously evolving their smuggling strategies. Law enforcement agencies face significant obstacles, such as limited inter-agency coordination, intelligence sharing, resource constraints, and legal barriers related to jurisdiction, extradition, and operational authority at both national and international levels. Political influences and bureaucratic inefficiencies also hinder long-term strategic responses. The proposed approach emphasizes proactive strategies, the adoption of advanced investigative technologies, improved data analysis, enhanced surveillance in high-risk zones, and the creation of a centralized intelligence database. Strengthening domestic and international cooperation, legal reform, and capacity-building for officers are also highlighted. The study concludes that sustained, cross-sectoral collaboration is essential for building an effective and enduring system to combat cross-border narcotics trafficking by transnational criminal groups.