Bangkok: NACC-PACC-NACC meet the acting abbot of Wat Trithotsathep to jointly inspect the temple's assets after 'Chao Khun Ach' mysteriously disrobed in Nong Khai.
According to Thai News Agency, police officers from the NACC, the Anti-Corruption Division (ACD), and the NACC traveled to meet the acting abbot of Wat Trithotsathep in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. The visit aimed to jointly inspect the temple's assets following the mysterious disrobing of Phra Thep Wachirapamok, also known as 'Chao Khun Achwa', in Nong Khai. The circumstances surrounding his disrobing remain unclear. Reports indicate that on June 26, officers from the ACD, the PACC, and the NACC sought to meet with the abbot to discuss a complaint concerning temple money embezzlement. However, Chao Khun Achwa refused the meeting and subsequently fled to Nong Khai, where he performed the disrobing ceremony.
Reports from June 29 reveal that the Sangha Chief of Regions 1-2-3 (Thammayut) issued an order appointing Phra Phromwachirarangsi, the Sangha Chief of Bangkok (Thammayut), as the acting abbot of Wat Trithotsathep. This appointment followed the vacancy left by Chao Khun Achwa's departure. The order confirmed his disrobing in Nong Khai Province, though the precise reason remains unknown. Relevant officials are diligently investigating the matter to uncover all the facts.
Chao Khun Ach was a prominent monk of the Thammayut sect, recognized for his leadership roles and contributions. At the age of 54, he had spent 34 years in monkhood. His educational achievements included passing the 7th level of the Pali examination and earning a Bachelor of Religious Studies degree. Throughout his ecclesiastical career, he held various influential positions, including abbot of Wat Trithat Thepworawihan and Chief of Sangha Region 14-15 (Thammayut). His ecclesiastical rank evolution was notable, with advancements to 3rd-class Royal Monk in 1991 and achieving the Thep rank in 2023.