BANGLAMUNG, CHONBURI — A monk was arrested on Tuesday for distributing methamphetamine and crystal meth (“ice”) after authorities discovered 492 meth pills and 72 grams of ice concealed in household items at his residence and affiliated temple. The operation followed a tip from the public via a LINE app group, highlighting community efforts to combat drug-related crimes.

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Local administrative officers, Huay Yai Police, and narcotics officials raided the two-story residence where the monk was staying. During the search, drugs were found hidden under cupboards, inside containers, and within gift boxes in his room. A subsequent inspection at his temple revealed an additional 29 meth pills and drug paraphernalia stashed in a microwave.

The suspect admitted to owning the drugs, claiming he took over the supply from a detained associate and sold meth pills for 50 baht each and ice for 400 baht per gram, primarily targeting local teenagers. Drug tests confirmed he had consumed illegal substances.

Authorities escorted the monk to the temple abbot to formally renounce his monastic status before taking him into custody. The seized items were transferred to Huay Yai Police for legal proceedings.

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Banglamung District Chief Patcharapat urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities via the LINE app, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in maintaining safety and preventing drug offenses. The case underscores ongoing challenges with substance abuse within religious institutions and broader societal efforts to address narcotics networks.