Law
Parliamentary Committee Investigates 720 Million Baht Assets Linked to Former Abbot
A Thai parliamentary committee is investigating the financial records of a former abbot and his associate following the discovery of 720 million baht in assets.
On September 24, 2026, Pitakdej Dejdecho, chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Money Laundering, announced an investigation into the financial activities of the former abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan in Ayutthaya and his associate, known as 'Sika Ae.' Authorities have seized approximately 720 million baht in assets, including cash and gold, linked to the temple's foundation.
The committee is scrutinizing the foundation's tax records, noting that no tax filings were found despite the significant asset value. Investigators are particularly concerned about discrepancies in the issuance of donation receipts, which were issued in the name of the temple while sales of amulets were conducted under the foundation's name. While initial investigations have not yet confirmed illegal activity, the committee has requested the Revenue Department to conduct an urgent audit.
For residents and visitors, this case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to ensure transparency in religious organizations and charitable foundations. The former abbot is currently facing criminal charges for fraud and embezzlement. It remains to be confirmed whether the foundation's operations violated civil or commercial laws regarding the distribution of income and the proper management of temple funds. The provincial ecclesiastical authorities have already appointed an acting abbot to manage the temple's affairs during the ongoing legal proceedings.