A Spatial Analysis and Hotspot Identification of Homicide Report Cases in Thailand

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Abstract
Homicide's impact transcends the individual, shattering social trust, damaging community cohesion, and casting a shadow of fear over entire nations, demanding urgent efforts to address root causes and prevent further loss. Although Thailand's homicide rates are comparatively lower than those of certain neighboring Southeast Asian countries, this issue continues to pose a significant threat to public safety within the nation. To gain deeper insights into their spatial distribution and potential clustering, this research employed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to conduct a spatial analysis of homicide report cases across Thailand from 2019 to 2021. Utilizing national data sourced from police reports, the study investigated the existence of spatial autocorrelation, indicating whether homicide occurrences are statistically dependent on their geographic location. This analysis shed light on whether homicides are randomly distributed or exhibit clustering tendencies, suggesting potential underlying spatial factors at play. Furthermore, the research employed hotspot mapping techniques to identify statistically significant clusters of homicide cases. These hotspots revealed areas with an elevated concentration of homicides, providing crucial information for targeted prevention strategies. By pinpointing high-risk areas, law enforcement agencies can allocate resources more effectively, focusing on factors specific to each hotspot area. This research leverages GIS to unlock new insights into Thailand's homicide patterns, leading to a more comprehensive understanding. The identification of spatial autocorrelation and hotspots provided valuable insights for policymakers and law enforcement agencies to develop targeted prevention strategies and enhance public safety across the country.
Funding Information
  • Thammasat University Research Fund (TUFT 45/2567)

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