Revered Monk Arrested Following Donation Misuse Allegations
Thailand’s Crime Suppression Bureau detained Luang Phor Alongkot—also known as Phra Ratcha Wisutthiprachanat—on charges including embezzlement, dereliction of duty, and money laundering. At 65 years old, he gained recognition for founding a hospice at Wat Phra Bat Namphu in Lopburi Province, which served people living with HIV/AIDS. He was required to disrobe before being officially charged, consistent with Thai legal protocol for Buddhist clergy.
A Hospice That Expanded as HIV Awareness Grown
Established in 1992, the hospice was once a pioneering initiative for HIV/AIDS care in Thailand. With medical advances and greater public awareness reducing demand, Alongkot expanded the temple’s outreach to care for other serious illnesses and provide education support for underprivileged children.
Resignation Preceded Arrest Amid Rumors of Fund Mismanagement
Amid growing speculation over misuse of donations, Alongkot stepped down as abbot just a week before his arrest. Authorities have also taken into custody Seksan Sapsubbsakul, the project’s fundraiser, as part of the ongoing probe.
Legal Framework and Investigation Underway
Deputy Commissioner Jaroonkiat Pankaew of the Central Investigation Bureau stated that Alongkot “cooperated well” with the police. He emphasized the gravity of balancing past benefits with legal responsibilities in the investigation.
Heralding a Broader Accountability in the Clergy
This arrest marks another in a growing pattern of scrutiny over financial and moral integrity within Thailand’s Buddhist monastic system. It follows a recent sex and blackmail scandal involving senior monks, spurring national debate over transparency, reforms, and oversight of temple finances.
As the probe proceeds, this episode serves as a reminder that even revered religious figures must answer to the law when allegations of misconduct arise.
