Police to Question Temple Monks About Gunshot Attack on Abbot Inside Monastery Cell with 16 Bullet Wounds
Police are investigating a shooting that left a Buddhist abbot with 16 bullet wounds inside his monastery cell in Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, and have summoned all monks for questioning as they search for suspects and possible motive
Police investigators from Muang Kamphaeng Phet Station have summoned all monks from Wat Krajom Thong to the police station for detailed questioning in connection with the shooting attack on Abbot Phra Athikan Bunlersi Akpunyyo, 64, of Wat Krajom Thong in Mueang District, Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, 2025. The abbot was struck by multiple gunshots of unknown caliber while inside his cell, suffering serious injuries to his right ear, neck, shoulder, and hip. He was rushed to the hospital by fellow monks and villagers.
Police are focusing their investigation on finding clues about the shooter, who may still be hiding or frequenting the temple. They are also examining internal disputes or grievances that could have motivated the attack and reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. Investigators are particularly puzzled by the fact that the abbot's pitbull guard dog did not bark during the incident.
Chalor, 60, the caretaker who attends to the abbot daily, expressed shock upon learning of the attack. He noted that the abbot is well-liked by both monks and villagers, though he does lend money to some. Chalor mentioned that while the temple's security camera system once functioned, the memory card has been expired for a long time. Regarding the pitbull, Chalor explained that the dog remains calm and quiet when with the abbot but becomes aggressive and barks when separated from him.
