Two Monks Clash at Temple, Arrested After Drug Tests
Two monks tested positive for drugs after a dispute at a temple in Buriram's Satuk district on September 9, leading to their arrest. The conflict arose from accusations of improper conduct and alleged repeated criticism between the junior a
On September 9, Satuk Police in Buriram province took into custody Phra Tiwa, 53, and Phra Thana, 33, after the two monks engaged in a heated dispute at a temple in Satuk district. Police conducted urine tests on both men and found positive results for drug use in both cases, leading to their immediate arrest and prosecution under the law.
During questioning, Phra Tiwa, 53, explained that he had been ordained for one year and was the junior monk compared to Phra Thana, who had been ordained for two years. He admitted to kicking through the monks' gathering circle while seven to eight other monks were seated together, breaking up the circle. He said his frustration stemmed from long-standing displeasure with Phra Thana, who he claimed had criticized him over twenty times during their daily alms rounds and accused him of being lustful and staring at women who entered the temple. He said he could not accept accusations of failing to maintain proper monastic conduct. He also admitted to drug use but denied being addicted.
Phra Thana, 33, countered that Phra Tiwa had misunderstood Buddhist teachings and interpreted them differently. He denied ever criticizing Phra Tiwa and claimed to have no idea why the younger monk kicked through the gathering circle. He similarly admitted to drug use but said it was not frequent and he was unsure of his reasons for using.
