Bangkok: "Big Tao," the Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, has confirmed the discovery of additional evidence to prosecute individuals involved in the embezzlement of funds from Wat Rai Khing. An investigation is underway to gather further evidence, including probing into the loan activities of the temple's abbot in Nakhon Pathom Province.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat Pankaew, the deputy commander, disclosed that significant progress has been made in tracing the financial trails linked to the embezzlement of Wat Rai Khing funds. However, some areas remain under scrutiny, particularly concerning Mr. Ekaphon, or former Phra Maha Ekaphon, who was closely associated with Mr. Yaem, the former abbot. Investigators are focusing on the financial transactions routed to Ms. Aranyawan through Mr. Chatchai's account, which Mr. Yaem allegedly used for transferring money. Further questioning of Mr. Ekaphon is scheduled to take place in prison this week.
The investigation also revealed that Ms. Aranyawan holds property assets worth over 40 million baht. It was found that she used part of the funds received from the former abbot for gambling and to acquire assets including land, real estate, and vehicles. Her four bank accounts have seen a circulation of over 2 billion baht since 2020. Despite potential asset sales or transfers by Ms. Aranyawan, authorities are confident in their ability to track financial transactions.
Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat also addressed actions against 'Dr. Toi,' a close associate of the former abbot, and her husband. Investigators have interrogated the treasurer of Rai Khing Temple and other relevant individuals. The ongoing evidence collection is expected to suffice for prosecution, with resolutions anticipated within the week.
Reports indicate that the former abbot's confidant and her husband own substantial assets, including a coffee shop in Sukhothai Province, an agricultural garden in Mukdahan Province, and land in Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai, collectively valued at over 40 million baht. Authorities are examining these asset acquisitions to determine if they stemmed from embezzlement, which would categorize them under money laundering, necessitating asset tracking for potential seizure upon filing charges.
Regarding the loan allegedly obtained by Mr. Yaem from an abbot in Nakhon Pathom Province, the Crime Suppression Division's investigation team has been tasked with extending the inquiry to further examine the financial trail.