Elderly monk found dead in Uthai Thani cell after three days

A monk in Uthai Thani was found dead after three days, emitting a strong odour in his monastic cell. The 84 year old deceased monk had been suffering from end-stage kidney disease and refused dialysis treatment.

The incident was reported yesterday, July 16, to Satean Onthong, a duty officer at Khao Bang Krach Police Station, by Bongkot Dhammatipo, deputy head monk of Khao Bang Krach sub-district and abbot of Wat Thung Na Kao. The police, along with medical personnel from Nong Chang Hospital and the Uthai Thani rescue team, responded promptly to the scene.

Upon arrival, Bongkot led the officers to the cell where Chalo Khongkalai’s body was discovered. Chalo was found lying on his back in an advanced state of decomposition, indicating he had been dead for at least two days. A strong odour filled the room, prompting the rescue team and local officials to light bundles of incense to mask the smell.

Bongkot also brought a fan to help ventilate the room. There were no signs of struggle or damage to any belongings in the room.

Bongkot explained that Chalo had been suffering from end-stage kidney disease and had refused dialysis treatment, citing a lack of carers and a fear of burdening others. Chalo had been self-managing his condition and had not participated in alms rounds for the past four to five years due to severe fatigue. Bongkot noted that when Chalo was first ordained, he was a robust and active monk, fully engaging in monastic duties.

The discovery of Chalo’s death occurred when a devotee came to make merit. The devotee had left an envelope for Chalo, which Bongkot asked a fellow monk to deliver. When the monk opened the door to Chalo’s cell, he was met with an overwhelming smell and the sight of the decomposed body. The monk immediately reported back to Bongkot, who then contacted the police, reported KhaoSod.

Bongkot suspects that Chalo had been dead for two nights and three days before being discovered. The police have since conducted a thorough investigation and confirmed the details provided by Bongkot.