BANGKOK — A high-profile temple in Pathum Thani is under intense scrutiny after police launched an investigation into alleged financial misconduct involving a 12.2 million baht international money transfer. The case, sparked by a complaint from a Thai woman based in Germany, accuses a senior monk of using her as a conduit to divert temple funds overseas.

DSI and police encircle Dhammakaya temple

The complaint, filed on August 14 by the woman’s legal representative, alleges that the monk hired her—identified only as “Ploy”—to manage a Buddhist association in Germany for a monthly salary of 174,000 baht. Funds were transferred from the monk’s accounts to Ploy’s Thai bank account before being sent to the association. Suspicion arose when the monk later pressured her to channel money directly from a foundation’s account into his personal German bank account.

The lawyer stressed that the complaint centers on financial transparency and institutional accountability, not personal grievances. The case has been escalated to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which is reviewing evidence to determine whether to pursue formal charges of embezzlement and money laundering.

Thai Temple Under Investigation in Multi-Million Baht Scandal https://t.co/IWNzL2MspS @TNAMCOT

— TNAMCOT English (@TNAMCOTEnglish) September 16, 2025

The scandal gained public attention after prominent lawyer Ananchai Chaidej disclosed that an abbot and eight additional individuals faced related accusations. The National Office of Buddhism has dispatched officials to the temple to conduct an internal investigation. The implicated monk remains a suspect, and the temple is expected to issue an official statement later today.

Wat Phra Dhammakaya in Pathum Thani

Authorities emphasize the need for transparency in religious institutions, particularly amid rising concerns about financial exploitation. The investigation underscores broader efforts to combat corruption and uphold ethical standards within religious organizations.

-Thailand News (TN)