Thais are concerned about rising violent crime and hope that harsh penalties will be used to address the issue, not believing the government can solve it.

A Suan Dusit Poll reveals that 87.40% of the public believe crime and violence in Thai society are increasing, attributing it to insufficient law enforcement and penalties. They hope for stricter law enforcement and harsher punishments. Meanwhile, 50.58% have low confidence in the government's ability to solve the problem.

On August 9, 2569, Suan Dusit Poll, Suan Dusit University , conducted a nationwide survey of public opinion on the topic of "Crime and Violence in Thai Society." The sample group consisted of 1,198 people (surveyed online and in the field) between August 4-7, 2569. The results are summarized as follows:

1. What are people's opinions on the crime and violence occurring in Thai society today?

• It became 87.40% more severe.
• The severity remains the same at 11.19%.
• Not sure 1.09%
• Less severe by 0.32%.

2. What do people think are the causes of crime and violence in Thai society?

• Law enforcement and penalties are not strict enough (86.81%).
• Drug problems account for 78.55%.
• Upbringing/family problems: 57.85%
• The inadequate probation and parole system: 54.34%
• Some police officers may be involved in the case (49.08%).

3. Given the recent news of crime and violence, are people concerned about their own safety?

• Very worried 55.09%
• Quite concerned (38.98%)
• Not very worried: 4.93%
• Not worried (1.00%)

4. What do people think should be done to help reduce crime and violence in Thai society?

• Punish offenders severely, especially those involved in serious crimes or repeat offenses (81.55%).
• Strictly and rigorously enforce the law without exception. (77.53%)
• 69.95% of released prisoners are closely monitored/supervised.

5. Do the public have confidence that the government will be able to solve the problems of crime and violence in Thai society?

• Not very confident 50.58%
• Somewhat confident 24.62%
• 18.36% do not have any confidence.
• 6.44% very confident

Suan Dusit Poll, Suan Dusit University, conducted a nationwide survey on "Crime and Violence in Thai Society" with a sample size of 1,198 people (conducted online and in the field) between August 4-7, 2569. The survey results showed that 87.40% of respondents believe that crime and violence in Thai society have become more severe, with 86.81% citing insufficient law enforcement and penalties as a major cause.

Regarding recent news, 55.09% expressed significant concern about their personal safety. As for ways to mitigate this problem, 81.55% believed that offenders should be severely punished, especially for serious crimes or repeat offenses. When asked about their confidence in the government's ability to solve the problem, 50.58% of the respondents indicated a lack of confidence.

Dr. Pornphan Buathong, Chair of Suan Dusit Poll, stated that the poll results reflect public sentiment that crime and violence are increasing, with concerns about personal safety. Concerns remain low regarding the government's ability to solve the problem. Therefore, the government must urgently enforce the law strictly and demonstrate tangible results to create safety and restore public trust.

Ms. Pemika Sanitpoj, a lecturer at the School of Law and Politics, Suan Dusit University, summarized that the survey results reflect a significantly increased fear of crime among the public, correlated with a high level of insecurity in their lives. This is because violent crimes are occurring very frequently nowadays, such as the case of a prisoner released from jail just two months prior who killed five innocent people, and the case of a student who opened fire on teachers and classmates, resulting in numerous deaths and serious injuries. These violent incidents have occurred in quick succession within just a few weeks.

Therefore, reducing the opportunities for crime is a measure that needs to be taken more seriously, and many people are calling for the enforcement of the death penalty.

For perpetrators of serious crimes that shock society at large, coupled with the use of security technologies and innovations such as CCTV systems and weapon detection systems for prevention, the government should urgently focus on suppressing serious crimes and repeat offenders. This will reduce the likelihood of recurrence, build confidence in the justice system, and enhance the safety of people's lives and property.

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