Monastic Order Transfers Monk Accused of Drug Use; Complaining Monk Also Transferred
A monk accused of drug use and inappropriate behavior at a Buriram temple has been transferred to his original monastery in Pathum Thani following a monastic investigation; the complaining monk was also relocated.
On May 26, 2025, Phra Maha Abhisit Wiriya, the provincial monastic leader of Nong Kee District in Buriram, along with sangha officials, Department of Religious Affairs staff, and temple committee members, conducted a fact-finding investigation into allegations against a monk at the same temple. The accused monk was reported to be using drugs, receiving male visitors at his quarters, engaging in explicit video calls with contacts from dating applications, and having inappropriate conversations. After reviewing preliminary video evidence, investigators found that the person in the clips resembled the accused monk, though no conclusive proof of drug use was established. However, given that the images damaged Buddhism's reputation, the sangha voted to transfer the accused monk back to his original temple in Pathum Thani within 24 hours and for him to reflect on monastic discipline. The complaining monk, who belongs to a different sect, was also transferred back to his original temple in Roi Et within 24 hours. When questioned, the accused monk declined to comment through media, stating only that he was being framed and did not commit the alleged acts, but accepted the sangha's transfer decision. The complaining monk explained he normally resides in Nong Kee District but came to this temple to care for his ailing parents. Upon witnessing inappropriate behavior that brought shame to Buddhism, he filed the complaint and accepted the sangha's decision. Meanwhile, relatives and supporters who learned of the case came to observe and offer encouragement to the accused monk, with many expressing disbelief in the allegations based on his good conduct.
