Monk in Buriram caught using drugs after tip-off
A monk was apprehended for drug use and allegedly deceiving a young boy at a temple in Buriram, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen. The citizen presented video evidence of the monk’s drug use, prompting police to investigate further.
The incident occurred yesterday, January 1, when law enforcement, led by Visanu Arpornpong, Chief of Prakhon Chai Police Station, coordinated with local administrative officials and community leaders to inspect a temple in Prakhon Chai District. The complaint suggested that a 31 year old resident monk, Ploy, had been involved in methamphetamine use and inappropriate conduct with a 12 year old boy.
Upon arrival at Ploy’s dwelling, police presented their credentials and requested to search the premises. The search did not reveal any drugs, but a urine test conducted on Ploy confirmed the presence of illegal substances.
Ploy admitted to using methamphetamine four to five days prior and acknowledged the authenticity of the video evidence showing him using drugs. However, he denied the allegations of misconduct with the boy, as accused in the complaint.
He explained that his drug use history predated his ordination, which his family hoped would help him quit. Having been a monk for four years, he claimed to have abstained from drugs until approximately six months ago, when a health check at the hospital diagnosed him with HIV.
This news, he said, led to significant stress, prompting his relapse into drug use. Ploy admitted purchasing methamphetamine for 1,000 baht (US$30) per package, delivered discreetly to the temple in parcels, and using it for about three months.
Despite admitting to drug use, Ploy refuted the accusations of misconduct with the boy, stating that if evidence existed, it should be presented.
The abbot, Suwan Kantawanano, expressed surprise at these revelations, having previously observed Ploy’s dedication to monastic duties and regular participation in temple services. He acknowledged awareness of Ploy’s health condition, noting Ploy’s hospital visits for medical appointments.
As abbot, Suwan expressed his discomfort over such incidents occurring at the temple and supported the legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.
Following the confession, police proceeded to defrock Ploy and detain him for further questioning and legal action.
