NAKHON PATHOM, May 15 (TNA) – Thai police on Friday raided the prominent Wat Rai Khing temple, west of Bangkok, escalating their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of 300 million baht ($9 million) in temple funds linked to online gambling. An arrest warrant has been issued for the temple’s abbot, Phra Dhammavachiranuwat, for his suspected involvement in the case.
Phra Dhammavachiranuwat was removed from his monastic and administrative positions on Thursday by order of the Central Region’s monastic chief following the emergence of the alleged misappropriation. While the now-defrocked abbot has reportedly cooperated with investigators, authorities have stated that his confession has been incomplete. Friday’s searches focused on seizing electronic devices from three locations within the temple complex.
Investigators are currently tracing financial transactions to identify all individuals implicated in the scheme. Temple officials have provided documents and testimony to assist the inquiry, and police are also reviewing CCTV footage. The investigation centers on the alleged transfer of temple funds, purportedly orchestrated by the former abbot, to online gambling accounts through a woman identified as Aranyawan. Over 300 million baht is reported to have circulated through these accounts. Aranyawan has admitted to borrowing substantial sums from the former abbot and has a previous arrest related to gambling. Police intend to seek the further detention of both suspects.- 819 (TNA)
