Crime Chiang Khan Temple Tensions Erupt in Abbot Shooting

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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

In a dramatic incident at Baan Nam Om Temple in Chiang Khan, two abbots were embroiled in a late-night altercation that culminated in a shooting. The incident, which unfolded just before midnight on 4th August, has left the local community in disbelief.

 

Police from Chiang Khan Police Station arrived at the scene to find 39-year-old Phra Maha Yothin Khemiyo, abbot of Wat Pa Phatthanaram, suffering from a gunshot wound near his left ear. He was swiftly taken to Chiang Khan Hospital for treatment.

 

Also present was Phra Ajarn Paworn Thewa Dhamma, head monk of That subdistrict and abbot of Wat Suan Thammathiwat. Initial investigations suggest that the shooter was Phra Athikan Manop, an abbot from a nearby temple, who used an unidentified firearm, firing from behind. After the shot, Phra Athikan Manop reportedly fled in a black Mazda 2 sedan with a Loei registration plate.

 

Eyewitnesses described hearing a heated argument between the abbots, followed by the gunshot. Post-incident, Phra Athikan Manop was seen hastily leaving the temple premises.

 

Authorities are actively pursuing the suspect, and investigative efforts are underway to uncover what sparked such a drastic confrontation between the religious figures.

 

This shocking event highlights tensions that often remain hidden within religious communities. As police work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, the incident raises questions about safety within sacred spaces and the pressures faced by those in monastic life.

 

For now, the focus remains on apprehending the suspect and ensuring justice. The community awaits more details as the investigation progresses, hoping for swift resolution and peace to return to their revered temple.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-05