Thai authorities have taken a former abbot into custody on allegations of embezzling approximately 100 million baht ($3 million) from the 14th-century Wat Phutthaisawan monastery. The 66-year-old monk, identified as Phra Wachirayan Wi, was defrocked following his arrest, which occurred after investigators discovered evidence of systemic financial irregularities.
Police began probing the monastery’s finances in mid-July after receiving an anonymous tip regarding the misuse of temple funds. According to lead investigator Pattanasak Bupphasuwan, donations intended for temple renovations and payments for sacred amulets were diverted away from the monastery's official accounts. During a raid on the former abbot's residence, officers recovered cash and gold bars totaling 100 million baht.
The investigation also led to the arrest of 47-year-old Punyavee Rungrueang, who is accused of assisting the former abbot in managing the illicit funds. Police reported that significant sums were processed through her personal bank accounts, and they recovered additional gold and jewelry from her property. Authorities also discovered video evidence of the former abbot engaging in sexual activity with Rungrueang, a violation of the vow of celibacy required of Thai monks, who are legally classified as state officials.
The former abbot was widely recognized for producing popular coin amulets, which are reportedly held by high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Investigators indicated that the inquiry is ongoing and that they are currently looking into the potential involvement of several other individuals.
Source: BBC News
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