Chiang khan: A shocking incident unfolded at Suan Thamma Thewarat Temple in Loei Province when a monk, Phra Athikan Manop Thanawiro, allegedly shot another monk, Phra Mahayothin Khemiyo, at close range. The attack left Phra Mahayothin injured, while another monk present at the scene narrowly escaped harm.

According to Thai News Agency, CCTV footage captured the sequence of events leading to the shooting. The footage shows Phra Mahayothin, abbot of Chom Sri subdistrict, engaged in conversation with Phra Khru Thaworn Thewatham, the abbot of That subdistrict. The situation escalated when Phra Athikan Manop, abbot of Khao Kaeo subdistrict, arrived at the temple. Exiting his vehicle, he approached Phra Mahayothin and fired a gun at point-blank range before fleeing the scene.

The shooting occurred at 7:00 PM yesterday, and the injured abbot was swiftly transported to a hospital by a temple boy. Initial reports suggest that Phra Mahayothin suffered a gunshot wound to his left ear, although his injuries are not considered life-threatening. Phra Khru Thawon Thewatham, who managed to evade the attack, later took reporters to the scene, pointing out bloodstains and recounting the events leading up to the shooting.

As the monks were discussing temple maintenance funds and other matters, Phra Athikan Manop unexpectedly left the conversation. He returned 20 minutes later, armed and ready to confront Phra Mahayothin. In the aftermath, Phra Khru Thawon expressed bewilderment over the attack, stating that he had no prior indication of Phra Athikan Manop’s intentions.

In a further twist, Phra Ajahn Thaworn Thawaro, abbot of Wat Sra Kaew Chommanee, reported receiving a threatening message from Phra Athikan Manop shortly after the incident. The message warned him to leave Chiang Khan or face dire consequences, leaving Phra Ajahn Thaworn puzzled about the motive behind such a threat.

Authorities are investigating the incident, and the search for Phra Athikan Manop, who remains at large, continues.