Investigation and Inquiry Powers

Section 16

You will note that the Jurisdictions and powers of courts, judges, prosecutors. This as well as administrative or police officials are governed by relevant laws and regulations.

Section 17

In Thailand, Thai administrative and police officials have the authority to investigate criminal offenses, normally in their own area.  Section 18

Note that outside Phra Nakhon and Thon Buri: Then district-level officials (including police sub-lieutenants and above) . They can conduct inquiries within their areas. Lastly In Phra Nakhon and Thon Buri: province the police sub-lieutenants and above have this authority. In general in Thailand, the inquirer in the district where the offense occurred handles the inquiry. However if needed, the inquirer where the accused resides or was arrested may take over. Note however that where there are multiple inquirers exist in one area, the chief inquirer is responsible for the case. Section 19

When there is a case involving unclear or multiple jurisdictions. The exmpale used is tracking a serial killer. Then any relevant inquirer may act. – If the accused is arrested: the inquirer at the location of the first arrest is responsible. – If not: the inquirer at the site where the offense was first discovered takes the lead.

Section 20

For crimes committed abroad under Thai law: – The Attorney-General or deputy is the main inquirer and may delegate to prosecutors or inquirers. – Delegated prosecutors share inquiry powers and may direct evidence collection. – Until the Attorney-General assigns responsibility, the following may act: 1. The inquirer where the accused is arrested 2. The inquirer requested by a foreign government or victim Upon completing the inquiry, the findings must be submitted to the Attorney-General under sections 140–142. Section 21

– If there’s uncertainty about who is responsible within a province, the provincial governor decides. – In Phra Nakhon and Thon Buri, a police commander (Deputy Director-General rank or above) makes the decision. – If the dispute spans provinces, the Director-General of the Public Prosecution Department decides. – Investigations must continue while awaiting final decisions. Section 21/1

For police-led investigations, if jurisdiction is unclear within the same province or unit, the commanding officer decides. Investigations must proceed during this process.