Villagers Demand Police Probe into Temple Document Disclosure
Over 200 villagers and disciples of a Nakhon Ratchasima temple abbot filed complaints with Thai authorities demanding investigation into how financial documents were disclosed and whether their public release violated regulations.
On September 22, more than 200 villagers and disciples of Phra Maha Teeranath submitted a letter to the Central Investigation Bureau requesting an investigation into documents and news coverage presented by a man known as Danai or "Kao Ma." The group is demanding clarity on the disclosure of financial information from Wat Pa Phu Phasa Sueng in Nakhon Ratchasima province and seeks to determine how government documents were obtained and whether their public release complied with regulations.
Komsarn, a representative of the disciples, explained that the letter submission is part of their effort to address the temple case. They provided supporting documents including government correspondence related to news coverage, transcripts from a national investigative program, and media publications, along with a list of over 200 villagers who participated. The group is requesting that authorities conduct a fair and thorough investigation and provide clarification to Buddhist representatives to ensure accurate understanding.
Komsarn stated that on September 14, news was presented concerning Phra Maha Teeranath, the abbot of Wat Pa Phu Phasa Sueng, and 11 related temple and monastic residences. The disciples are concerned that the presentation of financial figures may have led the public to believe the information relates to an alleged embezzlement of 45 million baht from the temple. They argue this could harm the temple, clergy, and devotees, and are requesting a comprehensive fact-check. The representatives emphasized that their submission is not intended to obstruct official operations but to ensure fair investigation of all parties involved and to caution officials against releasing information that could cause public misunderstanding.
After submitting their letter to the Central Investigation Bureau, the group of over 200 villagers and disciples proceeded to the Nation building in Bangkok to submit another letter to program representatives and media outlets, requesting verification and clarification of information presented about Phra Maha Teeranath and Wat Pa Phu Phasa Sueng, including matters of relations and financial data. The disciples provided related documents and requested fact-checking from all parties while requesting the opportunity for Buddhist representatives to clarify points that could cause public misunderstanding. During their journey to the Nation building, the group performed a Buddhist chant and reiterated that their submission is intended to seek clarity and verify facts, with no intention to obstruct official or media operations.
