Shocking Discovery at Temple: Missing Deputy Abbot Found Dead Beneath Crematorium

Pictured courtesy of Khoasod.

A local undertaker was left stunned after discovering the decomposed body of a missing monk beneath a crematorium while preparing for a funeral at a temple in Ang Thong province.

Police Lieutenant Supachai Notong, a duty investigator at Pho Thong Police Station, confirmed receiving a report regarding the discovery of a body underneath the crematorium at a temple in Thang Phra Subdistrict, Pho Thong District. Authorities, including medical personnel from Pho Thong Hospital and a rescue foundation team, were dispatched to the scene for further investigation.

The body was identified as Phra Wanchai, aged 60, the deputy abbot of the temple, who had been missing for nearly a month. His decomposed remains were found under the crematorium building by Mr Amnuay, a 70-year-old undertaker, who had entered the area to clean and collect ashes in preparation for a cremation scheduled the following day.

“I went in to collect ashes and noticed the iron door was locked from the inside,” Mr Amnuay told police. “I used tools to cut the lock, and after collecting about two wheelbarrows of ash, I started smelling something rotten. I searched the area and was shocked to find the monk’s body lying on the ground.”

Relatives of Phra Wanchai said the monk had been ordained for over 40 years and was known for his devotion to temple duties and charitable work, often overseeing cremations for the destitute free of charge. They had lost contact with him nearly a month earlier. His mobile phone was found charging in his quarters, but no one knew where he had gone.

The body was sent for forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death. Police have launched an investigation, although there were no immediate signs of foul play.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod.

-- 2025-04-20