Thai Police Arrest Monk Over £2.4 Million Embezzlement and Celibacy Breach
Phra Ajarn Khom Kongkaew, a prominent Buddhist monk, has been taken into custody by Thai police following accusations of embezzling more than £2.4 million from a temple in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The arrest of the 39-year-old abbot, known for his celibacy vows, occurred alongside a woman identified as Wiphakorn Boonsri, 32, who is suspected of being his accomplice.
Authorities stated that evidence includes footage allegedly showing the monk and Ms Boonsri engaging in sexual acts, a direct contravention of the stringent celibacy required of Buddhist monastics. Police Colonel Montri Theskhan, commander of the Crime Suppression Division, confirmed the arrests and the nature of the allegations.
The investigation began after a complaint was lodged with the National Office of Buddhism, detailing suspicious financial irregularities at the temple. It is understood that the embezzled funds, amounting to approximately 180 million baht, were reportedly transferred to various bank accounts, including those belonging to Ms Boonsri and the monk's relatives. Police further allege that Phra Ajarn Khom’s brother also participated in the scheme.
This incident follows other high-profile scandals involving senior figures in the Thai Buddhist Sangha, underscoring persistent concerns about financial oversight and ethical conduct within the institution. The Sangha Council of Thailand is expected to convene to address the allegations and the monk's defrocking.
