Buddhist Monk Arrested for Methamphetamine Use and Gambling
A Buddhist monk in Lamphun Province was arrested for methamphetamine use and illegal online gambling after residents reported his erratic behavior and hyperactivity. Phra Saen, 42, tested positive for drugs and admitted to losing thousands
On July 14, 2569 (2026), Pol. Col. Pinitj Netpanya, commander of Mae Tha Police Station in Lamphun Province, ordered an investigation into temples in the jurisdiction in coordination with community leaders and temple committees. Officers would arrest anyone residing at temples with drug-related behavior.
Led by Pol. Lt. Anutt Kammee, deputy commander of Mae Tha Police Station, and fellow officers including Pol. Lt. Prasit Yodruean and Sgt. Maj. Seksorn Suyawongse, police arrested one suspect on July 13 at 1:00 p.m.:
Arrested: Phra Saen, 42 years old, from Hua Sua Subdistrict, Mae Tha District, Lamphun Province. One mobile phone was seized as evidence. He is charged with illegal possession and use of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine) and unauthorized gambling (slot machines).
Background: Police received complaints from residents and Buddhist community members about Phra Saen's strange behavior and suspected drug use. Witnesses reported that unfamiliar teenagers on motorcycles would visit after he returned from religious ceremonies, and he would appear hyperactive and restless. On July 12, after returning from ritual duties, his unusual behavior prompted residents to report him to police. A urine test showed purple coloration, consistent with methamphetamine use. The suspect admitted to gambling on online slots after using drugs, losing thousands of baht with no wins. Police initiated the process to remove him from monastic life and proceeded with criminal charges.
