Thailand has launched a new national security strategy that combines a big-data crime-fighting platform and artificial intelligence monitoring systems to combat transnational crime, improve public safety and strengthen confidence among tourists. The initiatives are designed to help authorities track criminal networks more effectively while enhancing real-time security in major tourist destinations.
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The government announced the introduction of the SCAM & Human Trafficking Information Exchange and Linked Database, known as SHIELD, alongside the Intelligent Bird Eye Operation Centre (IBOC), an AI-powered monitoring system. Together, the two platforms form a coordinated approach to tackling modern security threats, including call-centre gangs, human trafficking networks, cybercrime and other cross-border criminal activities.
Prime Ministerial directives have instructed all relevant agencies to integrate their operations under a unified framework based on the principles of “relieving hardship, improving public welfare, protecting public peace, eradicating drugs and defeating criminal gangs”. The policy aims to strengthen national security across multiple areas.
Government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said criminal activity has evolved into sophisticated international networks, requiring stronger technological capabilities and closer international cooperation. In response, the Royal Thai Police has advanced SHIELD as a central platform for sharing crime-related information.
SHIELD links large databases, digital evidence and international financial trails, enabling investigators to identify suspects, track offenders, dismantle criminal organisations and pursue legal action more efficiently. The system is also intended to close legal loopholes that transnational criminal groups have previously exploited.
The platform builds on existing operations including the International Anti-Scam and Human Trafficking Syndicate Command Centre (Warroom IAC) and the Royal Thai Police’s Anti-Cyber Scam Centre (ACSC). These efforts involve cooperation between the Royal Thai Police, commercial banks, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, the Department of Special Investigation, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their work focuses on tracing financial flows, freezing mule accounts and assisting victims.
IBOC will provide physical security support through AI-powered monitoring capable of detecting irregularities, identifying risky behaviour and supporting rapid responses to incidents in economic zones and major tourist destinations.
Koh Samet has been selected as the pilot location for a Smart Safety Zone project using the new technology. The island receives more than one million visitors annually, making it a key testing ground for the system.
Then Nation reported that authorities will evaluate the pilot programme before considering expansion to other tourist destinations and strategic locations throughout Thailand. Rachada said SHIELD would serve as the “brain” connecting intelligence and tracking international criminal networks, while IBOC would act as the “eyes and ears” monitoring safety on the ground.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 June 2026