Law
Abbot Removed Following Major Temple Fund Fraud in Chiang Rai
The abbot of Wat Mae Kham in Chiang Rai has been removed from his position after losing 8.7 million baht of temple funds to a call center scam.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, the abbot of Wat Mae Kham in Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai, has been officially removed from his duties. This decision follows a significant financial loss involving 8.7 million baht of temple funds, which were transferred to scammers over a period spanning from January 2025 to July 2026.
Investigations revealed that the funds were siphoned through 207 separate transactions directed to 66 different bank accounts. On August 9, 2026, the local ecclesiastical authority, Phra Khru Aphiwattanawathi, issued an order suspending the 64-year-old abbot, Phra Maha Nor Kaew Inthapanyo, citing behavior that caused substantial damage to temple assets. An acting abbot has since been appointed to manage the temple's affairs.
For residents and visitors, this incident highlights the pervasive nature of sophisticated financial fraud targeting institutions in Thailand. While the immediate administrative action has been taken to protect the temple's remaining assets, the broader investigation into the criminal network behind the 66 bank accounts remains ongoing. It is not yet confirmed if any of the stolen funds can be recovered or if further legal actions will be taken against the individuals involved in the scam. Travelers should remain vigilant regarding unsolicited communications, as such scams continue to impact various sectors of society.