Bangkok: Police are urgently investigating the financial trail of Wat Trithatthep’s accounts to determine the destination of funds, especially concerning any links to a former abbot and a laywoman.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, disclosed the ongoing progress in the case involving the former abbot of Wat Tri Thotsathep. The former abbot disrobed abruptly and left the country for a neighboring nation under suspicious circumstances. The investigation is focused on the temple’s financial accounts to trace the flow of money. If the funds are traced back to the laywoman, the former abbot could be implicated. Conversely, if the money is found to be personal, no charges will be pursued. The laywoman could also face charges if she knowingly received temple funds.

Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat mentioned that the former abbot’s history has not been thoroughly examined yet. Describing him as a “rising star monk,” he noted that the abbot was young and rapidly promoted, though the reasons behind his swift advancement remain unclear.

As of now, no evidence of wrongdoing has been found, and the investigation is expected to be lengthy due to the involvement of numerous financial paths. The authorities are committed to ensuring clarity in the findings.

When questioned about the possibility of questioning the laywoman, Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat explained that further investigation of the financial trail is necessary. Once clarity is achieved, appropriate actions will be taken.

Currently, there is no activity surrounding Wat Trithatthep or its representatives in Phra Nakhon District. A temple officer mentioned that inquiries about the former abbot and the temple’s financial details could be directed to the newly appointed treasurer.

The news team proceeded to the Mahamakut Buddhist University Foundation under Royal Patronage to speak with the treasurer of Wat Trithet Thep. It was announced that Professor Emeritus Thongthong Chandrarangsu, Chairman and Managing Director of the foundation, would hold a press conference at 3:00 p.m. to provide further information.