Monk arrested in Loei temple raid for meth possession

Police raided a temple in Loei province and arrested a monk caught with methamphetamine hidden in his quarters. The monk was immediately defrocked and charges have been filed.

Officers from the 3rd Control Division (R.8) of the Surasak Montri Army, led by Captain Chamnarn Manboon, along with local police and administrative officials, conducted a search at a temple in Namala subdistrict, Na Haeo district, Loei province. The operation followed a tip-off about a monk involved in drug-related activities.

The suspect, identified as Natthakit, was found with 55 methamphetamine tablets, one green pill, 2,800 baht in cash, and drug paraphernalia hidden in a box on his bed. He was taken into custody and immediately brought to Phra Khru Panya Warawut, the deputy abbot of Khok Sawang Pattana Temple, for defrocking.

“We received credible information about the monk’s involvement in drug activities and took immediate action to investigate and address the situation.”

After being defrocked, Natthakit, along with the seized items, was handed over to the Na Haeo Police Station for further legal proceedings, said a police spokesperson.

“The operation was carried out meticulously to ensure the sanctity of the temple and respect for the religious institution, despite the grave nature of the crime.”

Natthakit faces legal charges and awaits further investigation by the police. The police have assured the public that they will continue to uphold the law without prejudice, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their position, are held accountable for their actions, reported KhaoSod.

In related news, a renowned Thai social activist, in collaboration with the Kalasin police and local administration, intervened to help a young man allegedly threatened by a monk. During the investigation, police discovered firearms, methamphetamine, and marijuana in the monk’s quarters.

In other news, police conducted a raid at a prominent temple in the Khlong Sam Wa district of Bangkok, uncovering drug use among monks and temple residents. Eight monks and 12 laypersons tested positive for drugs, and 16 voluntarily sought drug rehabilitation.