Investigation launched after video shows men in monk robes using alcohol and glue in Korat

Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima have opened an investigation after a video circulated online appearing to show a group of men dressed in monk-like robes consuming alcohol and inhaling glue in a public area.

The incident was reported near a Bodhi tree along the city moat behind the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Administrative Organisation. The footage triggered criticism on social media, with some users raising concerns about damage to the image of Buddhism.

Officials from the provincial Buddhism office, police, and local monastic representatives inspected the area on April 22. However, they did not locate the individuals seen in the video.

Items recovered at scene

Despite the group not being present, authorities reported finding several items at the location. These included used glue bags, containers of adhesive, bottles of white alcohol, as well as mats, pillows, and cooking equipment.

An official from the provincial Buddhism office said the area is partially concealed from public view, with sections resembling a tunnel. This, they added, may allow such gatherings to take place without being easily detected.

Checks underway on identities

Officials are now working with local monastic leaders to establish whether the individuals involved are ordained monks.

If confirmed to be monks, they could face defrocking. If they are found to be impersonating monks, legal action may follow.

Police said patrols have been increased in areas considered at higher risk, while investigators review the video footage and speak with nearby residents in an effort to identify those involved.

Monastic authorities are also contacting temples in the area to determine whether the individuals are affiliated with any monastery.

Separate case leads to defrocking

In a separate incident, police officers and a village head carried out a raid on a monk’s quarters following complaints and evidence of misconduct.

Two monks were defrocked after being found to have used drugs, consumed alcohol, and engaged in an illicit relationship with a local resident’s wife.

Authorities have urged members of the public to report similar incidents to police or the provincial Buddhism office.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now Source 22 Apr 2026

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Here's the clip as reported on Thai channel 8 News.

12 hours ago, ASEAN NOW News said:

The footage triggered criticism on social media, with some users raising concerns about damage to the image of Buddhism.

The biggest ponzi scheme in Thailand

This is what happens when anyone can go a be there. Some are hiding from the law, or “paying their dues”, for something they have done. They really need to be much more strict on who can enter and stay. Unfortunately it give the Thai monks a bad name, of course with many leaders embezzling funds doesn’t help either. Sad.

A little "exogenous" help to reach enlightenment faster ?

2 hours ago, jcmj said:

This is what happens when anyone can go a be there. Some are hiding from the law, or “paying their dues”, for something they have done. They really need to be much more strict on who can enter and stay. Unfortunately it give the Thai monks a bad name, of course with many leaders embezzling funds doesn’t help either. Sad.

I think anybody should be allowed to ordain. It should be open to all and sundry and no one denied the chance. You go there to learn, not profess proficiency.

There shouldn't be a 'qualification' or entrance type exam to be able to pursue the desire to spiritually progress and change. Something which even the vilest criminal can experience. In fact they're the ones who need it most.

But if they don't adhere to the precepts then it should be swift derobing and a 10 year ban. Maybe 2 strikes allowed. You spend time as a novice first anyway which in its own way is a kind of probation for both sides.

Thing is, first, Buddhism, one of the biggest money making machines on the planet, you can do nothing until you "donate "

and when i first went to thailand over 30 years ago, you saw very few monks, and they were the typical stereo type, old men,

now anyone and everyone can be a monk. It seems to become the the thai version of the british benefit system.

If you dont want to work, want an easy life, everything for free,, become a monk,

if you have kids you can not, or do not want to take care off,, stick them in a temple to become a monk. Its an easy life,

I have seen them with wads of cash, brand new top notch phones, laptops, smoking, drinking.

so now you are getting all sorts of dregs and dodgy characters becoming monks.

and its only going to get worse

5 hours ago, Funkymover said:

I have seen them with wads of cash, brand new top notch phones, laptops, smoking, drinking.

Obviously on a much harder path to enlightenment than most.

In fact by their own beliefs they are suffering terribly and looking for the wrong solutions to that suffering.

We should wish them well and hope they find the real solutions fast.

Buddhism has only ever cost me what I was willing to donate. The ROI has been magnificent.

On 4/23/2026 at 3:44 PM, BusyB said:

I think anybody should be allowed to ordain. It should be open to all and sundry and no one denied the chance. You go there to learn, not profess proficiency.

There shouldn't be a 'qualification' or entrance type exam to be able to pursue the desire to spiritually progress and change. Something which even the vilest criminal can experience. In fact they're the ones who need it most.

But if they don't adhere to the precepts then it should be swift derobing and a 10 year ban. Maybe 2 strikes allowed. You spend time as a novice first anyway which in its own way is a kind of probation for both sides.

"Ban for this and that 10years ... Maybe 2 strikes" Geeze thank goodness your not in charge making difficult decisions. Why not just say after being de-robed, "Your never ever going to become a monk agian".