Bangkok: The abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan in Ayutthaya, known as "Luang Pho Choti," was arrested for embezzling 92 million baht from the temple and engaging in sexual misconduct within his living quarters.
According to Thai News Agency, the Crime Suppression Division police apprehended Phra Wachirayan (Atichoti Thammavaro) at 6:00 AM, following an arrest warrant from the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Court, Region 1. He was discovered to have misappropriated temple funds over a two-year period by issuing over 20 unauthorized donation receipts, transferring the money to a close female associate, resulting in damages exceeding 92 million baht. The abbot was detained at his residence within the temple premises.
Further investigation into his activities uncovered CCTV footage showing the abbot involved in sexual misconduct with a female devotee inside the temple's living quarters. Authorities are continuing to gather additional evidence, and the abbot will be questioned by the Crime Suppression Division.
Additionally, the Crime Suppression Division recently arrested a close female associate of the abbot, identified as Ms. Punyavee, for her role in embezzling temple funds, with tens of millions of baht circulating through bank accounts annually. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) disclosed that both individuals were apprehended for conspiring to launder money and other charges related to the embezzlement.
The arrest of Mr. Atichot, aged 66, and Ms. Punyavee, aged 47, signifies a significant crackdown on corruption within religious institutions. Both were charged with various offenses, including embezzlement by a public official and conspiracy to commit money laundering, based on arrest warrants issued by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, Region 1, dated September 8, 2026.