Police Update Probe Into Temple Embezzlement Case
Investigators are examining financial records in a temple embezzlement case involving a former abbot in Ayutthaya, awaiting documentation from the Anti-Money Laundering Office expected this week. Police say anyone found linked to the allege
On September 14, 2025, Police General Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, commander of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), disclosed progress in the case against Atichar, the former abbot of Wat Phuttai Sawan temple in Ayutthaya province, and Punyavee, both accused of involvement in temple fund embezzlement. Officers are currently gathering and examining evidence, particularly financial transactions, and are awaiting documentation from the Anti-Money Laundering Office. The expected timeframe for receiving these documents is this week. Once received, investigators will conduct a thorough review, focusing especially on any connections between individuals involved in the case. Should investigators find evidence linking anyone to the alleged wrongdoing, that person will be summoned for questioning and further legal action will follow. Pattanasak also addressed recent media reports about investigations at Wat Chulalongkorn temple in Samut Songkhram province, stating that the source of such reports remains unknown and that the BCI has not conducted any such investigation at the temple.
