Loei Monk Faces Scandal Over Alleged Ritual Misconduct

Loei Monk Faces Scandal Over Alleged Ritual Misconduct

A senior monk in Loei and a man described as his close associate have been accused of deceiving elderly men into taking part in a sexually explicit so-called charm ritual. Residents and fellow monks said the pair had drawn concern for some time over allegedly inappropriate behaviour at the temple. One elderly man claimed he was invited to a ritual that was supposedly meant to improve his relationship with his wife, only to encounter sexual acts instead. The monk later denied being involved in the ritual and rejected claims about a romantic relationship with the other man. He also said he would step down from his leadership roles to help calm public concern while maintaining his innocence.