started · updated
Ayutthaya temple abbot arrested for 92-million-baht embezzlement
Thai police have arrested the 66-year-old abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan, a royal monastery in Ayutthaya, and a 47-year-old female associate for the alleged embezzlement of over 92 million baht in temple funds.
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) conducted raids on September 10 following a whistleblower report. Investigators allege the abbot, known as Phra Vajirayan or Atichot Thammavaro, issued more than 20 unauthorized donation receipts over two years to siphon money into private accounts and a foundation.
During the investigation, CCTV footage from the abbot's quarters reportedly captured him engaging in sexual activity with the female associate on a dining table. Following the arrest, the abbot was defrocked.
Authorities seized a significant amount of assets during searches, including cash, gold, jewelry, and land deeds. While the former abbot has denied the embezzlement charges, he admitted to the romantic relationship with the associate.
Entities
Anutin Charnvirakul · Atichot Thammavaro · Ayutthaya · Central Investigation Bureau · Crime Suppression Division · Phra Vajirayan · Phra Wachirayan Wi · Phutthaisawan Temple · Punyavee Rungrueang · Punyawee · Wat Phutthaisawan
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 7 SOURCES] The CIB arrested the former abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan and his female associate. www.naewna.com · visionthai.net · thailandnews.co · thestandard.co · www.ibtimes.co.uk · +2 more
- [● 5 SOURCES] CCTV footage captured the abbot engaging in sexual activity with a female associate in his quarters. visionthai.net · www.gelora.co · thailandnews.co · www.ibtimes.co.uk · www.stheadline.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The suspect allegedly issued more than 20 unauthorized donation receipts over two years. visionthai.net · thailandnews.co · www.ibtimes.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The investigation involves five locations across three provinces. visionthai.net
- [● 7 SOURCES] The abbot was 66 years old and the female associate was 47 years old. www.naewna.com · visionthai.net · www.gelora.co · thailandnews.co · www.ibtimes.co.uk · +2 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] The former abbot denied the embezzlement charges but admitted to the romantic relationship. visionthai.net · thethaiger.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Authorities seized assets including cash, gold, and land deeds during searches. visionthai.net · www.gelora.co · thestandard.co · thethaiger.com
- [● 8 SOURCES] The suspects allegedly embezzled over 92 million baht from the temple. www.naewna.com · visionthai.net · www.chiangraitimes.com · thailandnews.co · thestandard.co · +3 more