Photo via MGR Online

 

In a surprising revelation, an abbot from Mueang Temple in Bangkok's Bang Khae district reported the theft of a significant personal fortune, comprising 10 million baht in cash and nearly 13 million baht in gold. The abbot, Phra Ratchawatchara Phattanatorn, insists that these valuables were accumulated personally, separate from any temple donations.

 

Phra Ratchawatchara assigned Sakda Lertritsomboon, the temple manager, to file an official complaint with the Phetchakasem Police Station on July 1. Following the report, police visited the temple to question the abbot about the circumstances surrounding the theft.

 

The abbot recounted that he hired two men, Thawatchai Khamsen and Thinnakorn Tonkaew, to accompany him to a bank on June 28. After withdrawing the large sum, he stored it securely in his office at the temple. However, upon returning the next morning, he discovered that the bag of cash and his gold bars had disappeared.

 

Suspecting the involvement of Thawatchai and Thinnakorn, the police have launched a search for both men. Yet, it is the abbot's claim of amassing such wealth that has captured public attention and sparked debate across social media.

 

The significant personal assets have raised questions about how a monk, who typically leads a life of simplicity and modesty, could accumulate so much wealth. Comments from social media users reflect the widespread curiosity and skepticism, with remarks like:

 

"How did a monk manage to save 10 million baht?"

 

"The luxurious life within the temple!"

 

"Perhaps we should rethink career paths!"

 

Such reactions have led some to urge the police to further investigate the source of the abbot's wealth, seeking to confirm whether it is indeed personal, as claimed.

 

While the primary focus remains on recovering the stolen assets, the incident has inadvertently spotlighted broader issues within religious institutions, particularly regarding financial transparency and the role of wealth in monastic life. As the investigation continues, the case has opened a dialogue about the expectations and realities of monastic living in modern-day Thailand, challenging perceptions and prompting calls for greater accountability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-02

 

 

"...theft of a significant personal fortune, comprising 10 million baht in cash and nearly 13 million baht in gold. The abbot, Phra Ratchawatchara Phattanatorn, insists that these valuables were accumulated personally, separate from any temple donations."

Buddhist monks generally take a vow of poverty, which involves renouncing private property and personal ownership of possessions, with a focus on spiritual development and detachment from material wealth.

He should be defrocked... how did he rack up this fortune? Maybe stealing from donations? Or is he an IT consultant?