Alleged S Scandal in Thailand Rocks Monastic Community – High-Ranking Monks Implicated
A major scandal is sweeping across Thailand’s religious landscape after police uncovered alleged sexual misconduct involving a woman and several prominent Buddhist monks. Authorities believe the woman, identified only as “Golf,” amassed a trove of over 80,000 explicit images and videos, allegedly showing her in compromising acts with clergy members.
Disgraced Monk Flees to Laos Amid Probe
The controversy erupted when a former abbot from Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan temple in Bangkok, widely respected and known by his monastic title “Chao Khun”, abruptly disrobed and fled to Laos in late June. Authorities suspect that his relationship with the woman included large financial transactions meant to silence her.
Investigators are now working with the National Office of Buddhism and the Anti-Corruption Commission to examine temple finances. There’s growing concern that temple donations may have been misappropriated or funnelled into private accounts under Golf’s name.
Authorities Widen Net As More Monks Identified
So far, five senior monks have been forced to leave the order, with insiders suggesting that dozens more may be involved. Officials are using the explicit material to identify those filmed without their consent.
This marks the first major use of Thailand’s newly tightened religious misconduct laws, which aim to uphold the reputation of monastic institutions in the face of public scrutiny.
A Wider Crisis of Trust?
The scandal has sent shockwaves through the devout Thai population and triggered debate over transparency and ethics in religious institutions. Some Singaporeans, especially frequent visitors to Thai temples, have expressed dismay on social media, calling for greater accountability in the Buddhist clergy across the region.
With the investigation ongoing, authorities have stated they will pursue both criminal and disciplinary charges, depending on evidence.