BANGKOK, Sept 16 (TNA) – A prominent temple in Pathum Thani province is under investigation after a woman living in Germany, through her lawyer, provided Thai police with additional financial documents.
The woman, identified as “Ploy,” alleges that a well-known monk misappropriated temple funds, amounting to 12.2 million baht, and laundered the money.
The complaint, filed with the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), includes bank statements and transaction slips. Ploy, who was hired to manage a Buddhist association and foundation in Germany, was responsible for transferring money from her Thai account to the association’s account in Germany.
Her lawyer states the monk then allegedly attempted to have her transfer funds from the foundation to his personal German account, which raised her suspicions. Ploy’s lawyer clarified that her client’s actions are not related to any personal or romantic dispute.
In response to the allegations, the National Office of Buddhism has sent officials to the temple to observe the situation and report to senior clergy. The monk remains a suspect and is expected to provide a statement and evidence to the authorities. The temple is also scheduled to issue a statement later today. – 819 (TNA)
