A popular ex-monk, Phra Ajarn Khom, along with eight associates, refuted allegations of embezzling 182 million baht from Wat Pha Dhammakiri in Nakhon Ratchasima.
Now referred to by his layman’s name, Khom Kongkaeo, he presented himself at the Criminal Court for “Corruption and Misconduct Cases” on Tuesday.
Wutthima Thaomor, the 38-year-old former abbot, Mr. Khom’s sister Juthathip Phubodiwarochuphan, 35, and driver Boonyasak Patarakosol, 45, are among the accused.
Five other former monks, including Boonsong Panpuwong, 34; Bundit Yoicha, 42; Nathapat Tangjaisanong, 36; Boonluea Phothong, 36; and Thanakrit Yotsurin, 34 are also implicated.
They stand accused of jointly misappropriating an aggregate of 182.77 million baht from the monastery.
At 39, Mr. Khom, celebrated for his meditation prowess with numerous prominent devotees, was detained in March accompanied by his sibling and Mr. Wutthima.
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) initiated a probe following suspicions from the National Office of Buddhism about a monk misusing temple donations, as mentioned by Pol Maj Gen Montri Thetkhan, chief of the Crime Suppression Division under the CIB.
One particular contribution was said to be processed via Mr. Wutthima, the previous abbot, who subsequently transferred the funds to Miss Juthathip.
The amount found its way to her brother’s financial institution, while separate monetary gifts totaling 51 million baht were discovered in foam containers and travel bags at her residence. This amount was seized by the law enforcement.
The remaining six collaborators were arrested on March 9. Additional funds, gold bars, golden ornaments , and other precious items were recovered within the temple’s vicinity.
All the nine involved parties rejected the accusations. The judicial proceedings are scheduled for November 7 to commence the inspection of evidence.
