Bangkok: “Big Tao” has confirmed that fewer than 10 monks were involved with Ms. Kor. and that no senior monks were implicated in the incident. Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, addressed the ongoing investigation concerning Wat Trithat Thep. He clarified that although it was initially reported that high-ranking monks were connected to Ms. K., the investigation revealed that this was not the case.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation has uncovered that around 70-80% of the individuals involved were monks, alongside politicians and wealthy individuals, who also appear to be victims. Police have confiscated several items from Ms. K.’s house, including monk’s robes, bank account books from more than five financial institutions, and multiple mobile phones. These items are being scrutinized for evidence such as video clips and financial transactions to verify their consistency with testimonial evidence. Despite the progress, authorities have yet to identify which specific monks have financial ties with Ms. K.
Meanwhile, there has been no contact with Tid Ach, who remains elusive. Authorities suspect he may still be within the monkhood, as he has not been reachable since disrobing. They also consider the possibility that Tid Ach could be a victim of Ms. K. and are encouraging him to come forward with information.
Ms. K., who has not filed any formal complaints, is cooperating with investigators by providing valuable information. Her cooperation has revealed the involvement of numerous monks from the temple, prompting further inquiry. Authorities have encouraged any monk aware of wrongdoing to voluntarily disrobe.
In addition, the financial dealings of Wat Trithatthep are under scrutiny, with ongoing investigations to ascertain any potential financial corruption within the temple’s seven accounts. The working group will convene to decide on further actions, including potential additional searches.
In a related note, Pol. Lt. Col. Charoonkiat commented on reports concerning the abbot of a renowned temple in Phitsanulok, who allegedly disrobed and was involved with Ms. K. He confirmed that while the abbot did disrobe, it occurred a long time ago and aligns with previous reports.