Thai police find cash and gold in former Ayutthaya abbot’s quarters
Thai police discovered over THB100 million in cash and gold bars inside the quarters of a former abbot at Wat Phutthaisawan during an embezzlement investigation. The former abbot, who was also accused of sexual misconduct, has been arrested alongside his lay bursar.
Why it matters
The case exposes significant corruption and moral scandal within a prominent religious institution, drawing public attention to the oversight of temple finances in Thailand.
BANGKOK: Police found cash and gold estimated at over THB100 million in a former Ayutthaya abbot’s quarters during a THB92 million (US$2.7mil) embezzlement probe.
Police searching the quarters of the former abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan in Ayutthaya have reportedly discovered cash and gold bars initially estimated to be worth more than THB100 million, with counting still unfinished late on Thursday (Sept 10).
The discovery followed the morning arrest of the 66-year-old former abbot, previously known as Phra Wachirayan Wi., or Luang Pho Atichot Dhammavaro, over allegations that he embezzled more than THB92 million in temple funds and transferred money to a woman close to him. Police also said they had obtained footage showing sexual activity inside his monastic residence.
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