Bangkok: “Big Tao” has requested a week to address the ongoing issue at Wat Phra Bat Nam Phu and will invite the monk to provide a statement.

According to Thai News Agency, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) is working to resolve a problem that has persisted for 30 years. The police are preparing to invite Luang Pho Alongkot to give a statement as part of the investigation.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commissioner of the CIB, disclosed that a meeting was held to finalize the operational guidelines concerning the “Mor B, Spiritual Messenger” case and Wat Phra Bat Nam Phu. The meeting focused on ensuring fairness for all involved parties and maximizing public benefit.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat noted that the Crime Suppression Division’s investigation is progressing and becoming more thorough. Clarity is anticipated within one to two weeks, particularly concerning the temple’s finances, which are crucial due to their connection to public faith. The police are determined to ensure that donations are utilized for genuine benefits.

Information provided by “Dr. B” and internal matters of the temple have been found to be interconnected and ongoing for over three decades. This necessitates careful handling to maintain public confidence. Luang Por Alongkot, the abbot of Wat Phra Bat Nam Phu, along with relevant parties, will be invited to provide information. The investigation will cover all aspects but will be conducted delicately to safeguard the temple’s reputation unless necessary. Discussions are underway to establish a framework, and there is no confirmation yet on whether fraud charges will be filed. The investigation’s current status regarding irregularities remains undisclosed.

The investigation includes scrutiny of the temple’s finances and land, spanning over 2,700 rai, with a conclusion expected soon. The working group is committed to resolving these long-standing issues transparently and impartially.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat emphasized that National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police Pol. Lt. Gen. Kraiboon Thuadsong, and CIB Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridet have been informed of the operation. They have instructed it to be carried out thoroughly to ensure fairness for all parties involved.