Former Abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan Arrested Amid Embezzlement Allegations

On September 12, 2026, authorities in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province arrested the abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan, identified as Luang Phor Choti, along with a close female associate. The arrest follows allegations of embezzling 92 million baht from temple funds. During the operation, police seized assets belonging to the pair valued at several hundred million baht. The case has gained significant public attention following the circulation of controversial video footage involving the two individuals within the temple premises.

Following the arrest, a former monk who previously served at the temple, identified on Facebook as "Pro Prom," publicly detailed ten points of alleged misconduct by the abbot. These claims include the abbot’s failure to perform essential monastic duties, such as daily alms rounds and morning or evening prayers, as well as a lack of respect toward the temple’s senior leadership.

For residents and visitors, this incident highlights a significant controversy within a prominent religious site. While the police have initiated legal proceedings regarding the financial embezzlement and the seized assets, the broader allegations regarding the abbot's conduct remain subject to ongoing investigation. Observers should note that while the arrest and asset seizure are confirmed, the specific details of the legal case and the full extent of the alleged misconduct are still being processed by the authorities.