Trang monk defrocked after alcohol-fueled disturbance
A monk, involved in a public disturbance while allegedly drunk, insisted on his innocence, claiming he only consumed alcohol and did not use any illegal substances. The incident unfolded near a child development centre in Trang province, raising concerns among the local community.
Law enforcement received a report about a monk and a layperson causing a commotion. Upon arrival, officers found both individuals heavily intoxicated, with the monk claiming to possess a firearm, which alarmed the locals. The police detained them for questioning at the Mueang Trang Police Station.
The monk, identified as 52 year old Noppadon, failed to provide evidence of his monkhood, only possessing a national ID card. He claimed to have been ordained for one year. His companion, 48 year old Saichon, lacked identification but had a police report from Ratphum Police Station.
The document stated that two Thai men had brought him from Hua Lamphong, Bangkok, to work in a palm plantation in Songkhla, only to abandon him. Consequently, his belongings and 1,000 baht went missing with the men’s vehicle.
Both men underwent drug tests, which returned negative results. However, their incoherent accounts and refusal to accept responsibility added to the confusion. Noppadon vociferously declared that even a senior monk could not force him to disrobe, citing his connections with influential religious figures and denying any wrongdoing.
Saichon remarked that his friend, the monk, consumed alcohol daily and had spent 1,200 baht on alcohol and snacks that day. Noppadon was clearly upset about being defrocked.
“I only drink alcohol, never touch drugs. What’s wrong with having a drink? Why should I be defrocked for it?”
He also criticised his friend for not supporting him.
“I collect alms to feed us both, providing you with food and drinks. Why won’t you stand by me?”
Ultimately, the police escorted Noppadon to meet Phra Maha Suwan Wichatharo, the abbot of Nikrotharam Temple and the chief monk of Mueang Trang district. Despite Noppadon’s continuous resistance, the police managed to complete the disrobing ceremony, effectively removing his monkhood, reported KhaoSod.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Vice highlights the alarming defrocking of four monks in Thailand for meth use, underscoring a pattern of drug-related scandals threatening the integrity of Buddhism in the nation amid rising trafficking concerns. (read more)
- CBS News highlights a Thai temple devoid of monks after drug tests revealed methamphetamine use, raising community concerns over merit-making, amid escalating meth issues in Southeast Asia and beyond. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do incidents involving religious figures like monks attract significant public attention?
Such incidents challenge societal expectations of moral conduct and highlight the tension between personal behaviour and religious roles.
How do communities balance the respect for religious figures with the need for public safety?
Communities rely on law enforcement to address disturbances while respecting religious institutions to uphold moral standards.
What if a monk refuses to be defrocked despite evidence of misconduct?
Community and religious leaders must navigate the legal and spiritual implications to maintain trust and uphold religious integrity.
How do personal struggles of individuals within religious communities impact their collective image?
Such struggles can tarnish the community’s reputation, prompting leaders to address issues transparently to maintain public trust.
What role do influential religious figures play in resolving conflicts involving monks?
They provide guidance and enforce disciplinary actions to preserve the sanctity and moral authority of their religious institutions.
