A monk disguised by wearing a wig was arrested for drink-driving in Surin after police discovered a firearm, ammunition, and a female companion inside his vehicle. The incident occurred at 00:05 on 27 March 2026 during a police checkpoint operation on Krungsri Nok Road in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Surin District. Authorities confirmed the driver was intoxicated and in possession of items that raised both legal and disciplinary concerns.
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Surin Provincial Police, led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Sukon Sriarun, had set up the checkpoint with support from senior officers including Pol. Col. Chainarong Boonduang, Pol. Col. Suchok Pumeechokchai, and Pol. Col. Ekphong Pholmani. Officers stopped a Chevrolet four-door pickup truck with Surin licence plates after noticing irregularities. The driver, later identified as Mr Supawat, 42, showed signs of intoxication and failed a breathalyser test with a blood alcohol level exceeding the legal limit.
Further inspection revealed a female passenger, Mrs Sumonthatip, 46, whose behaviour appeared suspicious. A search of the vehicle uncovered a 9mm pistol and ammunition concealed inside her handbag. She was detained and initially charged with illegal possession and carrying of a firearm in public without permission.
Police also found 123,814 baht in cash and monk’s robes, including an anga, sabong, and waist girdle, inside the vehicle. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Mr Supawat is an ordained monk residing at a forest monastery in Tha Tum District, Surin Province. Mrs Sumonthatip later admitted the firearm belonged to him and said she had previously claimed responsibility out of concern for the legal and monastic consequences he might face.
The case has raised concerns over misconduct involving members of the clergy and potential breaches of both civil law and monastic discipline. Authorities are coordinating with relevant agencies to verify the monk’s status and determine appropriate disciplinary action alongside criminal proceedings.
ThaiRath reported that both individuals were taken into custody and handed over to investigators for further legal action. Police stated that enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case and any additional offences that may apply.
Picture courtesy of ThaiRath
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Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 28 Mar 2026