BANGKOK: Lawyer Decha Kittiwittayanan has taken steps to initiate legal proceedings against Phra V. Vajiramedhi, accusing him of supporting fraudulent investment activities associated with The Icon group. The complaint, which includes a request to the Anti-Money Laundering Office to freeze assets, was filed this afternoon.
According to Thai News Agency, Lawyer Decha, representing victims of The Icon case, dispatched Ms. Amnuayporn Maneewan, known as Lawyer Kung, to file the complaint against Phra Methee Wachirodom, also known as Phra Achan V. Wachiramethi. The complaint alleges that the monk’s sermons encouraged people to invest quickly, with promises of rapid wealth. Evidence presented includes a video clip of the sermon and photographs linking Phra Achan V. Wachiramethi to the suspects and the group’s activities, suggesting involvement in promotional efforts.
Lawyer Decha highlighted the influence of Phra V. Vajiramedhi as a high-ranking monk, which contributed to public trust and investment. The lawyer n
oted that the monk’s actions, particularly his sermons at The Icon, deviated from typical religious duties and encouraged investment. Following the complaint, the victims will be questioned to determine any harm caused by the monk’s sermons.
In addition to the complaint, Lawyer Decha plans to petition the Anti-Money Laundering Office to scrutinize the financial transactions of Phra V. Vajiramedhi for funds received from The Icon, citing previous asset freezes linked to the group’s leader, Boss Paul.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere remains subdued at the Bangkok Special Prison and the Central Women’s Correctional Institution, following the detention of 17 individuals associated with The Icon. Efforts to contact the suspects’ legal representatives have been largely unsuccessful, with limited communication from those involved.
Separately, authorities are proceeding with the legal process for Boss Paul, with a request for a detention order submitted to the Criminal Court. The court’s decision will determine whether
he remains in custody at the Bangkok Special Prison amid concerns about potential disruptions due to the large number of inmates being processed.