Bangkok: “Big Tao” has prompted the abbot of Wat Phra Phutthachai to disrobe as a sacrificial response to a controversial secret video clip. Concurrently, the assistant abbot of Wat Pak Nam has sought disrobing at a renowned temple in Chiang Mai.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, alongside Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasong Chalermphan, Commander of the Anti-Corruption Division, and Mr. Phumiwisan Kasemsuk, Secretary-General of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), have been actively involved in tracking down the abbot of Wat Phra Phutthachai in Saraburi Province. The abbot, a high-ranking monk, was identified in a video clip allegedly involving inappropriate conduct with Ms. K. The team was successful in locating the abbot as he attempted to purchase a new robe near Wat Ashokaram in Samut Prakan Province. He was subsequently confronted with the evidence, leading to his admission and decision to disrobe.

Following this confrontation, authorities escorted the abbot to Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan, where he formally recited the disrobing words before the principal Buddha image in the ordination hall.

In a related development, efforts are underway to locate the assistant abbot of Wat Pak Nam Phasi Charoen. Initial discoveries indicate his presence at Wat Phra That Sunantha in Mae Ho Phra Subdistrict, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province. Negotiations are ongoing to present evidence to him, urging him to take responsibility through disrobing.

Further investigations at Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan in Chachoengsao Province aimed at finding another assistant abbot featured in the clip have so far been inconclusive. Sources indicate that the monk had left the temple early in the morning and has yet to return. Moreover, his personal vehicle, a black Toyota Fortuner MPV, is also missing, prompting officers to intensify their search efforts.

While the implicated monks have agreed to disrobe, ongoing investigations are focused on uncovering any financial misconduct, particularly whether temple funds were misappropriated for personal use or to support laywomen, reminiscent of the case involving Chao Khun Ach.