Investigation into former abbot Alongkot continues unabated
The investigation into the alleged embezzlement of over one billion baht in donations at Wat Phrabat Namphu in Lop Buri is gaining momentum, with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) working diligently to trace the missing funds.
The focus of the investigation is on the former abbot of the temple, Alongkot Phoolmook, and his aide, Seksan Sapsubbsakul, who were arrested on September 17, 2016. Both suspects are currently detained at Bangkok Remand Prison.
According to the CSD deputy chief, many of the donations were kept in cash, which could be a deliberate attempt to obscure the financial trail. This suspicion is further supported by the discovery of about 100 million baht, in the form of cheques, in the former abbot's living quarters at the temple.
Seksan Sapsubbsakul, aka "Mor Bee", is also being investigated. Mor Bee is a self-proclaimed spiritual medium who often assisted the temple in fundraising. The CSD deputy chief urges anyone who holds temple-related assets on behalf of Mr Alongkot to come forward.
Authorities report that both suspects are cooperating with them. However, the delayed disclosure of evidence could be interpreted as an attempt to cover up evidence. Both suspects are undergoing a five-day mandatory health quarantine due to pre-existing medical conditions.
Mr Alongkot's health appears stable, while Mr Seksan is experiencing mild psychological stress. In a recent development, Mr Sompong Nakhonthaisong, a former monk, admitted to borrowing money from the former abbot but has repaid half of the amount owed. Social media allegations suggest that several celebrities had borrowed funds from Mr Alongkot.
As the investigation progresses, there is a high chance that authorities will freeze more assets linked to the former abbot. The evidence seized during the raid includes items seized from Wat Phrabat Namphu and several other locations. The Amlo is working tirelessly to trace the rest of the donations.
The temple's former abbot, Alongkot Phoolmook, has yet to meet with investigators. The investigation is a significant one, not only for the temple but also for the wider Thai community, as it raises questions about the management and accountability of religious institutions' finances.
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