Suphan Buri monk defrocked after 400k baht fraud scandal
A Buddhist monk in Suphan Buri province has been defrocked following allegations of involvement in a fraudulent scheme with a spirit medium, deceiving a family out of 400,000 baht.
Dr Phra Maha Praipai Nontkaew, the head monk of Suphan Buri province, explained on social media that the case emerged when Gun Jompalang, a well-known influencer, assisted the affected family in seeking justice. The family reported being conned by a monk and a spirit medium, which led to significant financial loss. This incident occurred at Phukhao Din Temple, Sarakaw subdistrict, Mueang district, Suphan Buri province.
The legal proceedings against the monk started in June last year when the police decided to prosecute. The case has now been handed over to the prosecutor for further action. The monk is charged with fraud in collaboration with another suspect, identified as a fortune teller.
The monk, known for tattooing sacred symbols, allegedly allowed the fortune teller to perform various rituals in his quarters regularly. The fortune teller reportedly conducted these activities elsewhere, charging the victims substantial fees for these rituals.
The fortune teller is also facing charges of sexual assault. Although the monk is not directly linked to these allegations, his involvement in inappropriate activities has led to criminal charges.
Consequently, the decision was made to defrock him. The defrocking ceremony occurred at 3pm yesterday, November 19, at the temple, officiated by the district head monk and the abbot. The monk, Chase, has since left the temple.
The head monk of Suphan Buri, Dr Phra Maha Praipai Nontkaew, expressed his commitment to addressing such issues and maintaining the sanctity of the monastic community. He acknowledged the gravity of the accusations and reiterated the necessity for accountability and transparency within the temple administration, reported KhaoSod.
“The temple is a place of worship and spiritual refuge. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the trust placed in religious figures.”
The police continue to investigate the matter to ensure justice is served.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bangkok Post highlights the arrest of six senior monks, including activist Phra Buddha Isara, on embezzlement charges, revealing systemic corruption within the Buddhist clergy and the legal system’s response to it. (read more)
- Pattaya Mail reports six monks in Suphan Buri have been defrocked after testing positive for drug use during a raid prompted by community complaints, highlighting ongoing concerns about drug activity within religious institutions. (read more)
- Vice highlights a troubling trend in Thailand where monks, traditionally revered figures, are increasingly implicated in serious crimes, undermining public trust and raising urgent calls for reform within the monastic community. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do fraudulent activities involving religious figures impact community trust so deeply?
Religious figures are viewed as moral leaders; their misconduct challenges faith, shaking community trust and spiritual stability.
How can religious institutions strengthen oversight to prevent misconduct among their members?
Institutions can implement stricter accountability measures, regular audits, and transparent reporting to deter and address misconduct effectively.
What if religious communities actively engaged in promoting transparency and accountability?
It could lead to increased trust, reduced misconduct, and a stronger bond between religious leaders and their communities.
What motivates individuals to exploit religious roles for fraudulent purposes?
The perceived authority and trust in religious roles can be manipulated for personal gain, exploiting followers’ faith and vulnerability.
How does public exposure by influencers impact legal proceedings in such cases?
Influencers amplify public awareness, pressuring authorities for swift action and potentially helping victims gain quicker access to justice.
