Bangkok: The national police chief has mandated a thorough investigation aimed at prosecuting those implicated in the scandal involving the former abbot of Wat Rai Khing. This initiative includes an extension of the inquiry to involve the temple's treasurer and affiliated monks, particularly in connection with gambling activities. Preparations are underway to detain the former abbot and another suspect, with the intent to oppose their bail.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, disclosed significant progress in the interrogation of the former Phra Thammachiranuwat and Ms. Aranyawan. These individuals face arrest warrants for allegedly embezzling over 300 million baht from Wat Rai Khing to fund online gambling. Notable advancements have been made in tracking the financial transactions linked to the gambling website rather than the temple's religious activities. The suspects have provided valuable information, prompting the Central Investigation Bureau, under the leadership of Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, to gather evidence for prosecution. These offenses were committed by the suspects in their official capacities, as outlined by the Sangha Act.
The investigators are set to present the two suspects in court later today to seek a detention order, opposing bail due to the substantial damages involved and concerns about potential interference with witnesses and evidence.
The national police chief has further directed investigators to widen their inquiry to include others associated with the suspects, notably the temple's treasurer and monks. A search conducted at Wat Rai Khing this morning uncovered crucial evidence linking several crimes, which are currently being reviewed to strengthen the case file.