Central Thailand monk probed over funds and woman scandal
Temple finances and private dealings spark major investigation
Police have launched a probe into a senior monk accused of financial misconduct and improper relationships, following a complaint from a woman abroad.
Thai police have launched an investigation into the financial activities of a senior monk from Wat Na Pahpong, a well-known temple in Pathum Thani, following allegations linked to the suspicious circulation of around 500 million baht and reported connections to several women.
The probe is being led by the Central Investigation Bureau’s (CIB) Anti-Corruption Division (ACD), with Police Major General Jruykiat Pankaeo confirming that the inquiry stems from a complaint filed by a Thai woman currently residing in Germany.
According to Jruykiat, the complaint accuses the monk of misconduct under Sections 147 and 157 of the Penal Code, which cover offences relating to the misappropriation of public funds and abuse of authority.
Although the case had previously been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the CIB insists it has the authority to conduct its own investigation. The ACD is now examining financial transactions between 2013 and 2016, during which temple funds totalling around 500 million baht reportedly passed through various accounts.
Ananchai Chaiyadet, a prominent lawyer and chairman of the Dharma Army Lawyers Foundation, presented documents and financial evidence to investigators at the CIB headquarters yesterday, September 19. He revealed that the complainant had initially received 12.2 million baht from the abbot, allegedly intended for setting up a foundation in Germany.
However, these funds were transferred several times through her personal bank account, raising red flags with German police. She was subsequently charged with money laundering, though the charges were dismissed in court after she proved the funds were intended for charitable use, reported Bangkok Post.
Still, the incident prompted her to pursue legal action in Thailand, raising serious questions about the monk’s handling of temple finances and his personal relationships.
Police say the investigation will include an in-depth review of financial records, interviews with witnesses, and a closer look at the abbot’s alleged connections to women, which could further complicate his standing within the monastic community.
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