Law
Abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan Arrested Over Alleged Misappropriation of 92 Million Baht
Thai police have arrested the abbot of Ayutthaya's Wat Phutthaisawan, known for the 'Nuea Duang' amulets, following allegations of financial misconduct and violation of monastic vows.
On the morning of September 10, 2026, officers from Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division (CSD) conducted a raid on the living quarters of Wat Phutthaisawan in Ayutthaya province. The operation resulted in the arrest of the temple's abbot, Luang Phor Atichoti, a figure widely recognized for creating the popular 'Nuea Duang' (Beyond Destiny) amulets that have drawn numerous domestic and international devotees to the temple.
According to reports from Khaosod Online, the arrest follows allegations that the abbot misappropriated 92 million baht in temple funds, allegedly transferring the money to a close associate for the purpose of money laundering. Furthermore, authorities claim that surveillance footage captured the abbot engaging in intimate behavior with a woman inside his monastic quarters, which constitutes a violation of Buddhist monastic vows.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights a significant controversy within the local religious community, particularly for those who have visited the temple or collected its amulets. The arrest has sparked widespread discussion regarding the management of temple finances and the integrity of religious figures. As of now, the investigation by the CSD is ongoing. Authorities are currently working to trace the full extent of the financial network and identify any potential accomplices involved in the alleged embezzlement. The public awaits further updates as the legal process proceeds.
