SONGKHLA, April 24 (TNA) – Despite a recent fatal attack on a novice monk, Buddhist monks in Saba Yoi district of Songkhla province are steadfastly refusing to abandon their temples.
Phra Manop Mahaweero, the abbot of Wat Kuhra, or Wat Koh Aphinihan, conveyed his resolute determination after the shooting incident involving a young novice preparing for morning alms collection.
The abbot feels a deep commitment and spiritual connection to Buddhism, vowing to uphold their religious duties even in the face of ongoing unrest in the region.
Residing in the red-zone area, the abbot emphasized the crucial role of monks in preserving the nation’s heritage, represented by the temples, and in ensuring that Buddhism does not vanish from Thailand’s southern border.
In response to the security concerns, temples in Saba Yoi have altered their traditional practices. Instead of venturing out for alms, monks are now receiving offerings from devotees who come to the temples.
At Ban Ramai temple, less than five kilometers from the incident, local Buddhists gathered early to offer food, protected by soldiers and village defense volunteers. Residents expressed their fear but also their confidence in the area, noting a long period of peace and the strong, amicable relationship between the Buddhist and Muslim communities who have consistently supported each other.
Authorities believe the recent spate of violence in the past two weeks, including attacks on religious figures and civilians, is likely interconnected and aims to instill widespread fear and disrupt social harmony.
Progress in the investigation into the novice’s shooting indicates the involvement of a known BRN insurgent group operating in the Kok Pho district of Pattani, near the Songkhla border. Security forces have launched a special task force to apprehend the two perpetrators believed to be hiding in the border area. -819 (TNA)
