S-Scandal Shakes Thai Monastic Community, Nine Monks Defrocked
A major scandal has erupted in Thailand after a woman was arrested for allegedly seducing and extorting senior Buddhist monks, shaking public trust in one of the country’s most sacred institutions. The suspect, identified as Wilawan “Golf” Emsawat, was apprehended by police at her residence in Nonthaburi on 15 July.
Authorities believe Wilawan targeted influential monks across the country, engaging them in illicit relationships before demanding large sums of money to keep their affairs secret. At least nine high-ranking monks have been disrobed in connection with the case, including several abbots.
The Royal Thai Police’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) uncovered that Wilawan had amassed nearly 385 million baht (approximately S$14 million) over three years — with most of the funds funnelled into online gambling platforms.
Pregnancy Blackmail Led to S$222,000 Payout
Investigations began when an abbot from a well-known temple in Bangkok unexpectedly left the monkhood. It was later revealed that he had been blackmailed by Wilawan, who claimed she was pregnant with his child and demanded a payment of 7.2 million baht (S$222,000).
CIB Deputy Commissioner Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew described Wilawan as “dangerous”, stating her actions were calculated and deliberate. “She specifically targeted senior monks who had access to large temple funds,” he said at a press conference.
Bank transactions traced by police revealed that some of the extorted money had been transferred directly from temple bank accounts to Wilawan’s personal accounts.
Tens of Thousands of Explicit Files Discovered
A forensic search of Wilawan’s mobile devices uncovered a vast collection of evidence, including tens of thousands of images, videos, and chat logs with monks. These materials, police believe, were used as leverage in her blackmail schemes.
While scandals involving Thai monks occasionally surface, they rarely involve such senior figures or such large amounts of money. This case has reignited calls for tighter financial oversight in temples and stricter enforcement of the Buddhist code of conduct, particularly celibacy rules.
Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered a review of existing laws governing temples, with an emphasis on transparency and accountability in handling donations.
The CIB has since launched a dedicated Facebook page where the public can report misconduct involving monks, as the investigation continues to widen.
Authorities believe this case could prompt major reforms in Thailand’s religious institutions — a move many see as long overdue.