Bangkok: "Ms. Golf," the primary suspect in a high-profile case, has denied charges of extortion and infringement of freedom, claiming she merely borrowed money. Deputy Commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) revealed that 'Ms. Golf' maintained she sought cooperation rather than coercion in her dealings, asserting her actions were aimed at financial support, and she acted independently without accomplices.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Anek Taosuphap, Deputy Commander of the CSD, provided insights into the ongoing interrogation of Sika Golf, 35. The case involves allegations of rape and extortion against Tid Lae, the former assistant abbot of Wat Sothon. Authorities have charged Sika Golf with extortion and damaging freedom, both of which she has denied. In relation to the financial accusations, police allege she threatened Tid Lae for money, suggesting job termination would follow non-compliance. Sika Golf contends she only borrowed funds to cover car rental expenses. Regarding the charge of infringing freedom, where Tid Lae was reportedly coerced into filing a complaint against Chao Khun Ach, she claimed it was a mere request for assistance, not forceful.
The investigation further explored the nature of Ms. Golf's relationships with Tid Lae and other religious figures. On fraud charges linked to the former Director of the Office of Buddhism in Phichit Province, no charges have been filed yet. Authorities are gathering substantial evidence before proceeding to ensure a robust case.
Throughout the interrogation, Ms. Golf has shown cooperation, not disputing relevant or supplementary issues. Pol. Col. Anek highlighted that Ms. Golf's financial survival appeared dependent on funds from monks, with her engaging senior monks to access their assets. Her approach, involving renting luxury cars and homes, portrayed her as affluent, aiding her interactions with monks.
Pol. Col. Anek's analysis suggests Ms. Golf acted independently, without external aid or beneficiaries. He noted that her strategy capitalized on vulnerabilities within religious circles, offering a path to wealth and property. In the Wat Sothon case, her aim was infiltration through exploitation of weaknesses.
Meanwhile, in the instance of former Phra Maha Boonlert, the ex-assistant abbot of Wat Mai Yai Paen, a formal complaint has yet to be filed, pending further statements to the NACC.