Chaiyaphum: The committee of a renowned temple in Khon Sawan District is preparing to take legal action against the temple’s secretary for allegedly absconding with millions in donations and a popular molam singer’s fee.
According to Thai News Agency, the situation came to light after a post on the Isan Morlam Station page claimed that “Phra Lekha!! Stole the money from a famous Morlam singer! Fled.” Reporters who visited the temple in Khon Sawan District met with local officials, including the district chief and the temple committee. They examined the financial records from a merit-making event held between April 8-16, 2025, which totaled 1,154,135 baht. Phra Lekha, the abbot in charge, allegedly stole 913,972.50 baht, with the remaining balance unknown.
Recent developments indicate that the secretary has fled to another temple in Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province. It was noted that this monk often reported inflated expenses, such as charging the temple 340,000 baht for a folk singer while the contract was only 310,000 baht.
Initially, the district chief inspected the temple and received reports that the secretary had requested to manage the funds independently. The temple committee reportedly never had access to the money. The total cost of the event exceeded 1 million baht, all of which was allegedly withdrawn by the monk. Consequently, the temple had to borrow 140,000 baht to cover utility bills for the event.
The Morlam troupe has since approached the temple, demanding payment for their performance, and requested the inclusion of the monk who allegedly misused the funds. The temple committee plans to lodge a complaint with the Kon Sawan Police Station. Meanwhile, negotiations are underway as the monk’s parents have reportedly contacted the committee, offering to return the money by June 6.