Buddhist monk arrested in Thailand on suspicion of embezzling $2.8m

Thai police have arrested Phra Wachirayan Wi, a 66-year-old senior Buddhist monk and abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan, on suspicion of embezzling approximately $2.8 million intended for his monastery. He was arrested alongside a 47-year-old woman accused of helping to conceal the funds. The investigation began in mid-July following an anonymous tip. Police allege that donations meant for temple renovations and payments for sacred objects were not deposited into the temple's account. Authorities have seized assets valued at around $6.5 million, including gold bars and land deeds. The monk was defrocked shortly after his arrest. This incident is the latest scandal to affect the clergy in Thailand, following a similar case last year involving sex and extortion.

Thai police have arrested a Buddhist monk, Phra Wachirayan, and a suspected female accomplice, Punyavee Rungrueang, in connection with an alleged embezzlement of approximately $3 million in temple funds. Investigators began looking into the case in mid-July following an anonymous tip. During a raid on the monk's residence, police discovered cash and gold bars valued at over 100 million baht. CCTV footage also revealed the monk engaging in sexual activity with Punyavee Rungrueang, a violation of his celibacy vow. Punyavee Rungrueang has been arrested for abetting illegal activities, with police believing she helped manage the embezzled funds, as tens of millions of baht reportedly passed through her bank accounts annually.