Na kham: The head monk of the Na Kham sub-district has decided to expel a monk who was caught buying beer, a situation that has stirred public outcry and community discussions. The monk, who claimed the purchase was for a mechanic, has been ousted following the incident.
According to Thai News Agency, a video circulating on social media shows the monk purchasing beer daily. Villagers, frustrated with his behavior, secretly filmed him and reported the matter to the village headman. CCTV footage from April 16th, around 7:00 AM, captured the monk purchasing five cans of beer for 275 baht. During the transaction, he angrily accused the store employee of secretly filming him and reporting the incident. The employee clarified that villagers had filmed the monk, considering his actions inappropriate. The video was subsequently shared on social media, resulting in widespread criticism and calls for an investigation and possible disrobing if found guilty.
In interviews conducted by reporters with store employees, it was revealed that the monk had been a regular customer since December 2025, frequently purchasing beer, energy drinks, and chicken carcasses. He often arrived on an electric tricycle during off-peak hours. The monk claimed the beer was for craftsmen assisting at the temple. On the day in question, he expressed anger over being filmed and reported, mistakenly believing the store employees were responsible.
Recently, the deputy district chief responsible for security, together with police from Kuchinarai Police Station, the abbot of Nakh Kham Subdistrict, and the village headman, conducted a thorough investigation. They identified the monk as Phra Phirun Sirichantho from Wat Pa Isan Khiao. Upon reviewing the incident, the abbot convened a meeting with the monastic community and decided to expel Phra Phirun, returning him to his original monastery in Prasat District, Surin Province. This decision leaves only four wandering monks at the temple. Mae Thongdee, a long-time lay supporter of the temple, expressed her sadness over the development, noting that Phra Phirun, who has been ordained for 20 years and is 72 years old, had never exhibited such behavior before. Following the incident, Phra Phirun departed from the temple 3-4 days ago.