Defrocked Monk Arrested in Temple Embezzlement Case
A 66-year-old abbot was defrocked and arrested at a temple in Ayutthaya on embezzlement charges after allegedly misappropriating 92 million baht through fake certificates over two years.
At noon on September 10, 2024, at Phutthaithaisworn Royal Temple in Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, officers from the Anti-Corruption Division escorted Phra Wichiraphats (Pradid Thaniko), Vice Provincial Buddhist Affairs Officer, to conduct a defrocking ceremony for Phra Athichoti (formerly known as Luang Pho Choti), a 66-year-old abbot. The ceremony followed his arrest earlier that morning at his quarters on court-issued arrest warrant 29/2024, dated September 8, on charges including embezzlement, official misconduct, and money laundering.
Investigators found that over two years, the former abbot issued fake temple certificates for at least 20 transactions, misappropriating approximately 92 million baht in temple funds. He allegedly passed the money to associates who laundered it under other names. During the defrocking ceremony, which lasted about 30 minutes, the abbot appeared composed. He emerged in lay clothing under the name Khun Abhichoti and was taken into custody for further questioning.
Phra Wichiraphats stated the defrocking was voluntary and expressed concern for Buddhism, saying the temple remains an important spiritual center for the community. Police brought in a currency counting machine to the abbot's quarters to audit funds found there. A former disciple revealed that devotees of the monk include police officers, military personnel, and prominent entrepreneurs who had come to pay respects. The temple's main ordination hall and historic sites remain cordoned off as investigators collect evidence and interview related persons. Visitors from Thailand, Hong Kong, and China have been unable to enter the temple to make merit.
