Bangkok: The Royal Thai Police has confirmed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) conducted a search at Wat Pak Nam, suspecting a connection to a controversial clip involving a senior monk.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Local Administration (DLA) acknowledged the search at Wat Pak Nam, prompted by allegations linking ‘Ms. K’ to a high-ranking religious figure. The investigation aims to determine whether any breaches of religious discipline occurred. In a separate development, Wat Trithatthep is handling its own issues independently, while monks from Wat Luang Pho Sothon have reportedly fled and are currently unaccounted for.
Mr. Inthaporn Chan-iam, Director of the National Office of Buddhism (NOB), commented on the situation, stating that he became aware of the Anti-Corruption Division’s (ACD) actions through news reports. While the NOB has not received direct communication regarding the search, it is prepared to assist the police by coordinating with the abbot or senior monks in relevant matters. The results of the search remain undisclosed, and the specifics of the evidence sought by the police are unclear. Should evidence implicate the monk, the Sangha will be responsible for determining any disciplinary actions, relying on clear video evidence to guide their decision.
In a related incident, the abbot of Wat Trithatthep voluntarily disrobed following reports of being alone with a female follower in a hotel. Despite no evidence of sexual misconduct, no investigation has been initiated as the abbot has already taken personal accountability. The accompanying clip has not been publicly released.
The ACC also inspected three other temples: Wat Luang Pho Sothon, Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, and Wat Phra Phutthachai. Preliminary reports indicate that the monk from Wat Luang Pho Sothon is absent from the temple. The temple’s abbot is currently attending an engagement in another province and will provide further details upon returning.
The atmosphere at Wat Pak Nam Phasi Charoen was notably busy with people participating in merit-making activities in anticipation of an important Buddhist occasion. Senior monks have yet to make any public statements or clarifications regarding the situation.
Around 1:00 p.m., a representative from the National Office of Buddhism was seen arriving at Wat Pak Nam. When questioned by reporters, the official clarified that their visit was unrelated to the ACD’s search and was instead a private matter. The police did not coordinate with the NOB for the search at the temple.