Nong khai: Rumors are swirling around the sudden disrobing of Phra Khun Ach, a former abbot known for his promising career within the Thammayut sect, at Wat Chan Samakkhi in Tambon Michai, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai. The temple has remained tight-lipped about the incident, while allegations of embezzlement and an inappropriate relationship with a laywoman have emerged. According to Thai News Agency, reporters attempted to gather information from Wat Chan Samakkhi, where the disrobing took place. However, the temple refused to comment, with Nong Khai immigration officials stepping in to verify the facts. It was reported that the former abbot quickly left for Laos after disrobing. Immigration records show that he crossed the border into Laos on the evening of June 27, 2015, and returned to Thailand on June 29, 2015. CCTV footage from the private sector captured a bronze-colored car entering the temple grounds at 1:23 p.m. on June 29, coinciding with the alleged time of the disrobing. Despite this, Nong Khai immi gration officers found no records of a second departure from Thailand, leading to speculation that the former abbot may have used unofficial routes to exit the country. In addition to the allegations of embezzlement, a clip purportedly showing the former abbot in a compromising situation with a female follower has surfaced. Authorities contacted Phra Achan Achan for further information, but he reportedly avoided meeting with officers by staying in Lopburi Province. Initial investigations also suggest financial transactions linked to the former abbot, prompting authorities to gather evidence for potential legal action. The former abbot, who is 54 years old, had a distinguished career in monkhood, spanning 34 years. He held multiple esteemed positions, including administrative officer in 2014, and was the acting provincial abbot of Lopburi in 2015. He achieved the rank of preceptor in 2019 and served as the provincial abbot of Nakhon Pathom-Suphan Buri in 2022. His educational background includes the 7th leve l of Pali studies and a Bachelor of Religious Studies. Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division, disclosed that there is currently no evidence linking the former abbot to any gambling-related crimes. Nevertheless, should new information surface, the authorities are prepared to reopen the investigation.
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