Buddhist Amulet Collector Denies Any Wrongdoing in Temple Embezzlement Case
Buddhist amulet collector Pong Supharn denied involvement in a temple embezzlement case, insisting he only donated money and gold to the temple and never received funds. Supharn, a board member of a foundation linked to the accused former a
Pong Supharn, a prominent Buddhist amulet collector, expressed that there is nothing to worry about and everything is clear and transparent. He stated he has never received money from the temple, only made donations of cash and one kilogram of gold, done with pure sincerity. He emphasized that merit-making is rooted in faith and true intention, and that donations are valuable regardless of their size if given with a sincere heart.
The case involves the arrest of Atichot Tangprasert, the former abbot of Putthaithaisworn Temple, and Punvir Sikaeo, who are accused of embezzling hundreds of millions of baht from the temple. The Anti-Money Laundering Office received financial documents from the Suppression Division Police for investigation.
Investigators discovered that Atichot established the Wanchoti Foundation, positioning himself as chairman with a board of six members. Five board members have already been questioned and cooperated with the investigation. Pong Supharn, identified as a board member, was summoned for questioning to provide details about the foundation by September 22.
On September 21, 2025, Pong Supharn posted on his social media page stating that his family was equally saddened by the situation, but assured the public that everything would be clarified, emphasizing that he has never accepted money from the temple, only made donations. He reiterated that visiting the temple with sincere faith to perform merit and support Buddhism is honorable, and that merit-making is based on faith and genuine intention regardless of the amount.
