Report Monk Sought for Fatal Assault at Thai Temple

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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A tragic incident has shaken the community at Wat Sala Thong in Nakhon Ratchasima, as police search for a monk, known as Tik, wanted in connection with the alleged fatal assault of a disciple.

 

The unsettling episode unfolded around 1:30 am yesterday, leaving 46-year-old Somsak dead from severe head injuries, reportedly inflicted by a hard object. Authorities discovered the scene littered with signs of drinking, including a shattered white liquor bottle.

 

Witness accounts reveal that Somsak was drinking with friends when Tik, a monk temporarily residing at the temple, confronted him. The dispute erupted after Somsak allegedly asked temple boys to procure alcohol. The confrontation escalated, with Tik allegedly striking Somsak with a bottle, resulting in his death. Tik subsequently fled the scene.

 

Police Lieutenant Panuwat Bua Phan of the Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station is leading efforts to apprehend Tik. Searches of Tik's living quarters yielded only a running fan and some bloodstains, as the monk remains elusive.

 

Local residents have described Tik as a frequent alcohol consumer, often enlisting others to purchase liquor. Reports suggest Tik harboured long-standing animosity towards Somsak. On the fateful night, Tik allegedly consumed a large bottle of alcohol before the altercation. Witnesses attempted to intervene but were met with aggression, one being forced to retreat after trying to stop the violence.

 

According to witnesses, Tik delivered a potent blow to Somsak's head, leaving him motionless, before dragging his body away and fleeing with his belongings. There is palpable fear among residents, given Tik’s notorious violent past as a thug and soldier.

 

Assistant Abbot Vichai Akkachaiyo identified the monk as Mongkol Techathammo, or Tik, aged around 45, from Sa Kaeo. His troubled history includes a stay at Wat Khao Sukim and subsequent residence at another temple in the Choho subdistrict. Expelled due to his drinking, Tik had been residing at Wat Sala Thong on a temporary basis during Buddhist Lent.

 

Assistant Abbot Vichai recounted Tik’s reclusive nature and reluctance to engage in monastic activities. He often pursued alms rounds solo, accompanied by Suwet, who frequently purchased alcohol for him. Plans to expel Tik after Lent were in place but came too late.

 

Reflecting on the incident, Vichai expressed that such violence was unprecedented in his decade at the temple. He urged Buddhists to discern between Tik’s actions and the peaceful teachings of the wider Buddhist faith, emphasising the importance of maintaining trust in their spiritual community.

 

As police continue their manhunt, the incident underscores the complex interplay of personal shortcomings with religious expectations, leaving a community grappling with shock and grief. The chase for justice presses on, with Tik’s arrest remaining a top priority for authorities.

 

This distressing event has sparked broader reflections on the responsibilities of religious figures and the impact of personal conduct on public faith, as locals strive to rebuild and maintain their community's spiritual harmony.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-25

 

[quake]

Fake monks up to monkey business.

Just an everyday thing now.

T.I.T.