Thief Robs Temple Donation Boxes During Monk’s Absence in Khon Kaen

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

A brazen thief took advantage of a monk’s absence on a religious errand to rob multiple donation boxes at a well-known temple in Khon Kaen, using flypaper glue to extract money through the slots. Local authorities are now intensifying efforts to track down the suspect, who was caught on CCTV calmly committing the theft.

The incident took place at Wat Pa Saeng Arun in Phra Lap subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen District. Images from the temple’s CCTV system were circulated widely on social media, particularly via the “Focuskhonkaen” Facebook page. The footage shows a man wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt and black trousers entering the temple’s ordination hall during daylight hours.

After offering a brief bow before the principal Buddha image, the man walked over to six donation boxes placed on the right-hand side of the hall. Using an unknown tool and a mobile phone flashlight, he proceeded to extract the money from each box before calmly exiting the building.

Reporters who visited the scene met with Mr. Nitath Boonprom, village head of Moo 9, Ban Loeng Pueay, and local police investigators from Phra Lap Substation and Khon Kaen City Police Station. Forensic officers also inspected the site. All six donation boxes showed traces of sticky insect glue near the coin slots, indicating a premeditated method of theft.

Mr. Nitath explained that the theft occurred during the day, a time when the hall is usually closed and monks are often away for religious duties. The thief appeared to have known this routine, allowing him to carry out the robbery undisturbed.

“A monk mentioned that traces of glue and a fly trap bottle had previously been found near the boxes, but no one suspected anything at the time,” Mr. Nitath said. “Only later, during the evening prayers, did someone notice the glue on the boxes and review the CCTV footage.”

Although the man is not believed to be a local resident, people associated with the temple noted that he had been seen lurking around the premises on multiple occasions in the past. Authorities are now urging the public to help identify the suspect and appealing for donations to fund additional CCTV cameras for the temple.

In the meantime, local police, administrative officials, and village defence volunteers have increased patrols in and around the temple grounds to ensure security throughout the day and night.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod.

-- 2025-04-21