Abbot Arrested: 30 Hidden Cameras Found in Monk's Cell
Former abbot of Wat Phutthai Sawan arrested in Ayutthaya after investigators uncovered 30 hidden cameras in his cell and evidence of 92 million baht in embezzled funds over two years.
Authorities arrested Phra Wachiryanan, known as Luang Pho Choti, former abbot of Wat Phutthai Sawan in Ayutthaya province, following a covert investigation by the Anti-Corruption Division. He was arrested on September 8, 2025, under a warrant from the Corruption and Misconduct Court on charges of embezzlement, abuse of authority, and money laundering. Investigators found evidence that over a two-year period, he illegally issued temple documents for over 20 transactions, causing total losses exceeding 92 million baht. He allegedly transferred the misappropriated funds to an associate for laundering. During the arrest at his cell, police discovered 30 CCTV cameras inside and, after reviewing footage, found evidence of additional misconduct. Officers are continuing their investigation and seized the camera server for further examination. The abbot was taken for interrogation at the Anti-Corruption Division.
