Phichit: "Big Tao" has launched an investigation into the Bang Khlan Temple scandal amid allegations of interference by former officials in the appointment of the abbot, mismanagement of a 30 million baht fund, and unauthorized trading of amulets. The investigation has also uncovered instances of money being transferred to third parties' names. Big Tao noted that while political measures were initially employed to address the situation, the lack of peace has necessitated legal action.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Major General Charoonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, addressed the ongoing inspection of Wat Hiranyaram, also known as Wat Bang Khlan, located in Phichit Province. The investigation aims to resolve conflicts that have persisted for a decade. Despite efforts to mediate, the old power group continues to influence the selection of individuals for key positions within the temple, including the appointment of the abbot and acting abbot, thereby perpetuating conflict. Complaints regarding the disappearance of approximately 30 million baht over the past decade, allegedly linked to the trading of amulets and misallocated funds, are under scrutiny.
In response to these allegations, a meeting was held yesterday with key stakeholders, including the provincial ecclesiastical chief, district chief, military, police, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, and 18 arahants. The assembly unanimously decided to appoint the deputy ecclesiastical chief of Phichit Province, a figure respected by the public, to serve as acting abbot in place of the current abbot.
Police Major General Charoonkiat emphasized that while political principles were initially applied to avoid exacerbating the situation, the priority is to ensure the temple's forward progression. Although many cases have previously been settled without prosecution, the current issues remain unresolved. The recent decision to appoint the deputy provincial abbot as acting abbot until a permanent abbot is appointed is viewed as a positive step. The prosecution of those involved in corrupt practices remains a separate issue. Should peace not be achieved, legal measures, including prosecution, will be enforced. An operational sting has already revealed discrepancies in the purchase and transfer of funds, involving names not belonging to the monk. The clear money trail indicates that every baht should benefit the temple, not individuals, and those implicated will be prosecuted under the law.