Abbot Reports Vandalism to Historic Temple Walls in Chiang Mai, Urges Police Action

[Georgealbert]

 

 

The abbot of a renowned temple in Chiang Mai has taken matters into his own hands by reporting a vandalism spree to local authorities, as a group of graffiti artists continues to deface the historic walls of temples dating back over 600 years. The persistent vandalism has prompted the abbot to call for immediate police intervention.

 

On November 1, Phra Kru Visutthikitchanan, abbot of Wat Lam Chang, along with the head monk of the Sri Phum sub-district overseeing six temples in the area, filed a complaint with the Chiang Mai City Police Station. He expressed frustration at the ongoing damage to the walls of three temples under his care: Wat Lam Chang, Wat Dok Uang, and Wat Uang Kham.

 

Phra Kru Visutthikitchanan emphasised the urgency of the situation, noting that with the tourism season in full swing, both domestic and international visitors frequent the temples, which are popular tourist attractions. He urged the police to act swiftly to apprehend those responsible for the vandalism.

 

Community members have voiced their dismay at the sight of temple walls, fences, and residential properties marred by graffiti, particularly the ancient walls that have suffered significant damage. One local artist expressed sorrow at the state of the vandalised structures, stating that while artistic expression is appreciated, the crude language and territorial messages used by the vandals are inappropriate for a city renowned for its cultural heritage.

 

“Chiang Mai is an important tourist destination, and such defacement is not only disrespectful but also damaging to the city’s reputation,” the resident commented, calling for local officials to take serious action against the culprits.

 

Police Major General Warapong Khamlue, head of the Region 5 Police, assured the public that local law enforcement and the investigation team are actively reviewing CCTV footage to track down the vandals. He reiterated the importance of preserving the integrity of Chiang Mai’s historic sites and urged the perpetrators to cease their disruptive behavior.

 

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for a swift resolution to the vandalism issue, aiming to protect the cultural heritage that defines Chiang Mai.

 

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath.

-- 2024-11-03

 

 

[Geoffggi]

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

group of graffiti artists continues to deface the historic walls of temples dating back over 600 years.

Looking at the mold on the walls it is time for a re-paint

[Tidal wave]

Was a scouse was er tag found ?

[watchcat]

3 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The abbot of a renowned temple in Chiang Mai has taken matters into his own hands by reporting a vandalism spree to local authorities, as a group of graffiti artists continues to deface the historic walls of temples dating back over 600 years. The persistent vandalism has prompted the abbot to call for immediate police intervention.

 

The police force has certainly seen this, but as there is i no money for them  no work

[hotchilli]

On 11/3/2024 at 3:56 AM, Georgealbert said:

The persistent vandalism has prompted the abbot to call for immediate police intervention.

Tell them you thought it was a foreigner doing it, they'll be round rushing over in seconds

[loong]

On 11/3/2024 at 3:56 AM, Georgealbert said:

The abbot of a renowned temple in Chiang Mai has taken matters into his own hands by reporting a vandalism spree to local authorities,

 

Reporting to the police is not "taking matters into his own hands".

[PETERTHEEATER]

This appears to be the work of at least two rival groups. Anything you can do I can do better.