Ex-Monk Arrested for Theft Claims 'Voices' Told Him to Steal

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

In a startling case from Sa Kaeo province, former monk Daorung has been arrested for allegedly stealing 18,000 baht (£409) from a temple donation box. This arrest follows his defrocking just ten days prior and comes with a peculiar defence—he claims he was under the influence of alcohol and heard voices instructing him to commit the theft.

Daorung, 54, was apprehended in Aranyaprathet district after a warrant was issued by Nang Rong Provincial Court, charging him with nighttime theft. The operation was led by Police Colonel Wisit Buasongwong, with Lieutenant Colonels Patipat Nuekhoomueang and Suwit Phumprakhon, along with Police Sub-Lieutenant Nueng Chaiyamongkol.

During interrogation, Daorung confessed to using a kitchen knife to break into the donation box at Wat Don Mai Fai, where he had previously served as a monk for one term. After leaving the monkhood, his drinking spiralled out of control, leading to alleged hallucinations that prompted the theft.

Claiming he acted under the influence of these hallucinations, Daorung took all the cash from the donation box. Upon returning home, he discovered the total amounted to 18,000 baht (£409). Fleeing to Aranyaprathet by bus, he spent the night in various temples and stations, using 10,000 baht (£227) on alcohol and food. Unfortunately for Daorung, the remaining 8,000 baht (£182) was reportedly stolen from him while he was in a drunken stupor.

Daorung confessed his crimes to the authorities and expressed regret, apologising to the temple's abbot and community for his actions.

Police Lieutenant Samruay Obklang, in charge of the investigation, has charged Daorung with nighttime theft or receiving stolen goods. He is now set to face legal proceedings for his actions.

In a twist of fate, a similar incident occurred in Nong Suea, where a 42-year-old man was arrested for breaking into donation boxes at a local temple, taking over 5,000 baht (£114). The suspect, Piyaphan, was caught on CCTV and subsequently apprehended by Police Colonel Worayut Pongtan and his team on July 7.

These incidents highlight a concerning trend of thefts targeting places of worship, raising questions about security and the vulnerability of donation funds.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-14