Thai Abbot Arrested for Embezzling Millions in Temple Donations Amid Scandal
Thai authorities arrested the abbot of a historic 14th-century temple and his partner over the alleged embezzlement of millions in donations, alongside leaked footage of a celibacy breach.
Thai authorities have arrested Phra Watchirayan, 66, the abbot of the historic 14th-century Wat Phutthaisawan temple, on suspicion of massive embezzlement and money laundering involving millions of dollars in donations. Along with him, 47-year-old Punyawee Rungruang was arrested on suspicion of assisting in hiding and laundering the funds. The monk, who was one of the country's prominent religious figures, was stripped of his title immediately following the arrest.
The investigation was launched following an anonymous tip to police regarding the misuse of temple funds. Investigators revealed that approximately $2.8 million donated for temple renovations and the purchase of sacred amulets was not deposited into the temple accounts. During police raids, authorities recovered 28 land title deeds, jewelry, and 16 kilograms of gold bars with an estimated total value of $6.1 million.
The scandal took a turbulent turn following the leak of security camera footage showing the monk and his partner engaging in intimate acts in his living quarters, a severe violation of the vows of celibacy and modesty taken by Buddhist monks. The video, broadcast on local media, sparked widespread public outrage in a country where monasticism is revered but has recently been plagued by a series of scandals.
