Bangkok: “Big Tao” has announced that the investigation into the financial activities at Na Pa Pong Temple is currently awaiting critical bank statements before proceeding with potential arrest warrants for individuals involved in the temple’s accounts. The case centers around allegations of embezzlement against a former abbot, who continues to exert influence over temple finances even after his disrobing.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, provided insights into the investigation following a complaint filed by “Sika Bee” with the Center for the Prevention and Suppression of Threats and the Enhancement of Buddhist Security. The complaint seeks an in-depth review of the financial records of the forest temple in Kalasin Province, where the former abbot, also known as the former Luang Pho Muang, is accused of misappropriating temple funds despite his excommunication by the Supreme Sangha Council on February 18, 2014.
The complaint highlights concerns that the former Luang Pho Muang, although disrobed, continues to manage temple affairs and finances, raising questions about his prolonged influence within the temple community. Sika Bee emphasized the importance of an investigation to uncover the truth behind these allegations, as the monks within the temple reportedly remain reluctant to challenge his authority.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway, with particular attention given to the former abbot’s alleged possession of two national ID numbers, which could further complicate the case. He noted that the investigation would determine the veracity of these claims.
In relation to Wat Na Pa Pong in Pathum Thani Province, the temple’s lawyer recently addressed the financial scrutiny covering 500 million baht from 2013 to 2016. While no detailed financial disclosures were provided, the lawyer’s visit aimed to clarify the origins of the temple’s funds for the ongoing investigation. A German woman is also expected to provide a statement to investigators, contributing to the case’s complexity.
The case file has been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, yet the Anti-Corruption Division retains the authority to continue its inquiry. Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat emphasized the importance of obtaining bank statements to ensure a fair investigation, with plans to convene with the investigative team and complaint team from the Anti-Corruption Division to discuss further actions.
As the investigation progresses, there remains the possibility of issuing arrest warrants for individuals connected to the temple’s financial activities, contingent on the collection and corroboration of critical evidence.