Thai Monk Arrested in $9 Million Temple Embezzlement Scandal
BANGKOK — A senior Buddhist monk has been arrested in Thailand over allegations of embezzling more than US$9 million in donations from the temple he oversaw, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the religious community.
Authorities from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) say Phra Thammachiranuwat, the abbot of the renowned Wat Rai Khing temple, diverted more than 300 million baht (approximately US$9.05 million) from the temple’s bank account into his personal coffers.
According to investigators, a trail of financial transactions led from the temple, located just outside Bangkok, to an illicit online gambling network operating baccarat games—a discovery that deepens the seriousness of the charges.
Temples in Thailand, where the population is predominantly Buddhist, largely depend on donations from merit-making ceremonies, where followers contribute funds in exchange for spiritual merit and blessings for a better rebirth. The misuse of these offerings has raised concerns among both devotees and authorities.
Phra Thammachiranuwat is now facing charges of corruption and malfeasance, CIB deputy commissioner Jaroonkiat Pankaew confirmed during a press briefing held on Thursday, May 15.
“This arrest is part of our effort to purify and protect the integrity of our religion,” Jaroonkiat stated.
The case highlights growing scrutiny over the financial practices within religious institutions in Thailand, where donations often flow unchecked and public accountability is limited.
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