A new scandal shook Buddhism this month with the arrest of Phra Wachirayan Wi, 66, also known by his former monastic name Luang Pho Atichot Dhammavaro. The Thai ex-Buddhist monk was the leader (abbot) of Wat Phutthaisawan, an important 14th-century religious complex in Ayutthaya, Thailand's former capital, and was known for high seniority status, political prestige, and great popular influence.
The case involves serious violations of fundamental Buddhist religious vows, including failure to uphold vows of chastity and renunciation of material goods. Phra Wachirayan Wi had followers among government officials, businessmen, police authorities, and high-ranking military officers, demonstrating his wide network of influence.
Thai police initiated an investigation in July 2026 following complaints of misuse of temple funds. Authorities discovered that donations were pocketed on more than 20 occasions over two years, revealing a prolonged scheme of misappropriation of resources. According to the British newspaper "The Guardian," police stated that two sources of financial irregularities were identified.
