Thai police have arrested a former Buddhist abbot accused of embezzling about 100 million baht ($3 million) from a historic temple in Ayutthaya, in a case that has renewed scrutiny of misconduct within Thailand’s Buddhist clergy.

Phra Wachirayan Wi, 66, a former abbot of the 14th-Century Wat Phutthaisawan, allegedly diverted temple donations and payments for amulets and other sacred objects over more than two years.

Police said the money was deposited into accounts outside the temple, with investigators finding cash and gold worth more than 100 million baht during a raid on his residence. He was defrocked following his arrest.

The investigation also led to the arrest of 47-year-old Punyavee Rungrueang, who police accuse of helping manage the monk’s alleged proceeds. Officers said tens of millions of baht had moved through her bank accounts each year.

Police also found footage of the former abbot having sex with Punyavee at his residence. Buddhist monks in Thailand are required to observe celibacy and renounce material possessions.

According to the BBC, the case comes just over a year after a separate scandal in which several senior monks were accused of sexual misconduct and later blackmailed with intimate photographs and videos.

Phra Wachirayan was also known for producing a highly sought-after coin amulet, with reports saying Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul owns one of his creations.

Thai authorities have increasingly faced pressure to address financial and sexual misconduct among members of the country’s powerful Buddhist monastic community.

BOB Post