BANGKOK: Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers arrested Phra Wachirayan Wi., also known as Luang Pho Atichoti Dhammavaro, 66, then abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, on Thursday (Sept 10) under a court warrant.
A close female associate was also arrested.
The allegations include diverting temple funds for personal use, using his official position improperly or failing to carry out his duties lawfully, and working with others to conceal the money.
He later disrobed before being taken for questioning.
Investigators allege that more than 20 donation receipts were improperly issued in the temple’s name over more than two years, resulting in losses exceeding THB92 million.
Police believe some of the money was transferred to the woman, who allegedly converted it into other forms and concealed it under other people’s names.
Preliminary checks found that tens of millions of baht had passed through the woman’s account each year.
Officers are reviewing previous transactions, the sources of the money, recipients of transfers and assets that may have been acquired with temple funds, with a view to seizing or freezing them under legal procedures.
Police are also examining CCTV footage from the former abbot’s quarters.
It appeared to show him behaving intimately with the woman and included images that officers said showed sexual intercourse.
The investigation will be extended to other people, bank accounts and assets that may be connected to the case.
Both suspects have the right to contest the charges and are presumed innocent unless and until convicted by a final court ruling. - The Nation/ANN
