On 28 May 2025, a delegation from the Center for Crime Science (CCS), Royal Thai Police, visited the Jill Dando Institute of Security and Crime Science (JDI) at University College London (UCL), a world-renowned institution in crime science research. The visit aimed to explore academic collaboration and learn sustainable strategies for managing a crime science research center.
The primary objective of this visit was to understand operational strategies for sustainable management of crime science centers, while strengthening academic partnerships between CCS and UCL. The delegation also sought to adapt crime science principles and methodologies to the Thai context, particularly by enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies to analyze and prevent crime using data-driven and evidence-based approaches.
Throughout the visit, CCS delegates engaged in in-depth discussions with JDI leadership, including Emeritus Professor Gloria Laycock, Professor Kate Bowers, and Professor Jyoti Belur. A highlight of the visit was the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between CCS and JDI, confirming a mutual commitment to advancing academic collaboration and developing crime science in the Southeast Asian region. CCS also studied JDI’s sustainable business model, which includes generating revenue through training programs, securing research grants, and building international networks of expertise. Notable examples included the development of crime analysis tools and training programs aimed at fostering systems thinking among police officers.
JDI provided valuable guidance for the development of CCS in Thailand, including:
- Identifying “Quick Wins” to demonstrate the value of crime science and earn trust from senior leadership
- Building a culture of evidence-based decision-making within law enforcement
- Developing “Champions” within the police force to drive change
- Designing short- and long-term training programs to build a professional workforce in crime science
- Establishing a robust system for monitoring and evaluating progress
CCS aims to adapt these insights into a three-year strategic plan encompassing all ASEAN countries. In the first year, activities will focus on the CLMV group (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam), with the goal of establishing a regional Knowledge Hub. This hub will serve to expand networks of expertise, strengthen law enforcement capabilities, and bridge academic research with practical application across Southeast Asia.
The Center for Crime Science remains committed to transforming crime prevention practices in Thailand by introducing new paradigms grounded in science and international collaboration. Through engagement with world-class institutions and the development of sustainable academic and operational models, CCS is paving the way toward a safer and more resilient society.
