Bangkok: The secret relationship between former abbot Mr. Yaem Inthrakrungkao, known as Tid Yaem, and laywoman Ms. Aranyawan has been brought to light, revealing a complex web of financial transactions and personal ties. This connection came to public attention after an interrogation of both individuals, which included crucial evidence found on their mobile phones, exposing the depth of their relationship.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Aranyawan admitted to having a long-standing association with Tid Yaem, dating back to their days at Wat Rai Khing School. She disclosed that the former abbot had shown her kindness, which led her to request a loan of 40 million baht for investment purposes in 2021. This claim aligns with Tid Yaem's statement about transferring significant sums to Ms. Aranyawan during the same period.
Authorities discovered vital evidence, including a video clip of a conversation between the two discussing financial demands after a completed deal, involving repeated transactions of 500,000 baht each. Additionally, a secret video clip found on Tid Yaem's phone depicted Ms. Aranyawan showering, hinting at an intimate relationship. Officials are now prioritizing the investigation to determine if this connection motivated Tid Yaem to transfer hundreds of millions to Ms. Aranyawan.
In a related development, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpaen, commander of the Technology Crime Investigation Division, announced the expansion of an operation targeting the online gambling network 'LAGALAXY911'. This operation led to arrest warrants for 30 individuals, with 17 already detained, including Ms. Aranyawan. Further warrants have been issued for an additional six individuals.
The Anti-Corruption Division has identified another suspect, Mr. Ekaphon, a former monk at Rai Khing Temple, and is coordinating his arrest. Ms. Aranyawan's testimony linked Mr. Ekaphon to financial activities with the gambling network. However, despite inquiries about other senior temple monks' involvement, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong emphasized that current evidence only implicates former Phra Ekapot, and no further arrests have been made concerning other monks at the temple.