Financial Crime World

The Development of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in Thailand

Introduction

In 2002, the Thai government established the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), a new agency tasked with combating economic crimes and other serious offenses. This paper provides an overview of the DSI’s history, role, and organizational structure.

History of Establishment

The proposal for the establishment of the DSI was first put forth by the Committee on Administration and Judicial Affairs of the Senate in 1995. After several years of discussion and planning, the DSI officially launched in 2002 under the Ministry of Justice.

Key Milestones

  • 1995: The Committee on Administration and Judicial Affairs of the Senate proposes the establishment of the DSI.
  • 2002: The DSI is officially launched as a new agency under the Ministry of Justice.

Role and Responsibilities

The DSI was established to combat economic crimes and other serious offenses, including:

  • Financial and banking crimes
  • Intellectual property rights crimes
  • Taxation crimes
  • Consumer protection and environmental crimes
  • Technology and cyber crimes
  • Corruption in government procurement
  • Transnational and organized crimes

The DSI has its own jurisdiction, powers, and responsibilities, which include:

  • Investigating specific crimes
  • Preventing and suppressing crime
  • Promoting the agency’s expertise in investigation

Organizational Structure

The DSI has a unique organizational structure that includes:

  • Director General: The head of the DSI, responsible for overseeing the agency’s operations.
  • Offices: Various offices within the DSI, such as:
    • Office of Special Crimes
    • Office of Taxation Crimes
  • Groups: Various groups within the DSI, such as:
    • Human Resource Group
    • Strategy Planning Group

Management System

The DSI has its own management system that oversees the agency’s operations. This system is responsible for ensuring that the DSI operates efficiently and effectively.

Key Features of the Management System

  • Data collection and technology base: The DSI operates on a data collection and technology base, making it an intelligence unit rather than an army.
  • Expertise in investigation: The DSI promotes its expertise in investigation to prevent and suppress crime.

Conclusion

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is a key agency in Thailand’s efforts to combat economic crimes and other serious offenses. With its unique organizational structure and management system, the DSI is well-equipped to tackle these complex issues.