Report 200 Complaints Rock Thai Buddhist Community

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The Thai Buddhist community is facing a significant scandal following the revelation of over 200 complaints lodged with the Centre for Protection and Security of Buddhism. Deputy Commissioner Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has confirmed the seriousness of these allegations, which include trading monastic positions and financial misconduct.

 

Out of these complaints, 30 cases are actively under investigation by the CIB, while more than 100 have been handed over to regional police authorities. The allegations primarily concern financial misdeeds by monks and improper relationships between monks and women. Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat stressed that those supported by evidence will lead to legal consequences.

 

A particularly alarming claim involves the buying and selling of positions within the Buddhist hierarchy. Some investigations have uncovered monetary transfers, framed as donations, amounting to hundreds of thousands of baht. These transactions have raised suspicions about their true purpose.

 

One of the most prominent cases involves the former abbot of Wat Rai Khing, Yaem Inkrungkao. Despite possessing significant funds, his temple solicited financial help from others. Investigators have tracked transfers ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 Thai Baht (approximately £2,250 to £11,250) to Yaem's personal accounts.

 

These findings have prompted further scrutiny to determine if these transfers were connected to promotions within the monastic community.

 

The scandal not only threatens to tarnish the image of Thailand's revered Buddhist institutions but also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability. As investigations continue, the authorities remain committed to ensuring that any wrongdoing is addressed and that the integrity of Buddhist practices is upheld.

 

This ongoing situation underscores the complex intersection of faith, authority, and ethics in modern Thai society. As more details emerge, the public and devotees alike watch closely, hoping for actions that restore trust and uphold the sanctity of their spiritual institutions.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-05

 

[MarkBR]

Would be far more worried about more serious allegations, those involving violence, that get covered up.