Buddhist Amulet Collector Condemns Monk's Moral Misconduct
A prominent Buddhist amulet collector has condemned the arrest of a former abbot of Phutthaithaiswari Temple in Ayutthaya for allegedly embezzling over 92 million baht in temple funds and money laundering.
Pong Suphan, a prominent Buddhist amulet collector, posted on his personal Facebook account regarding the arrest of Sameechote, the former abbot of Phutthaithaiswari Temple in Ayutthaya Province, who was apprehended by police officers alongside Siga E on charges related to temple fund embezzlement and money laundering, with damages totalling over 92 million baht. Pong Suphan stated: "I am deeply saddened and cannot accept monks who violate Buddhist moral conduct, as this destroys faith and Buddhism. We earnestly perform good deeds and support the religion with pure hearts, but when we encounter news that shakes our faith, it inevitably leaves us disappointed. The events that have unfolded clearly caused emotional turmoil and hardship. Receiving encouragement from those around me during such difficult times is truly valuable. This is my space—if you don't like it, just move along and don't meddle. Inappropriate or offensive comments that hurt my feelings and damage my reputation are matters I understand well. Nobody should have to tolerate ridicule or disrespect. If we don't know each other well, I am having my lawyer review everyone. I don't accept apologies—the law is there for us to use."
