BANGKOK, Thailand – Police from the Department of Anti-Corruption and Misconduct (DACM) have arrested the former Provincial Monk of Nakhon Sawan and his close female associate for allegedly embezzling over 4.1 million baht from Nakhon Sawan Temple. Police plan a formal briefing later today.
The suspects, identified as Mr. Sarit, also known as Phra Thammavachirathirakun, former Provincial Monk and abbot of Nakhon Sawan Temple, and Ms. Phuthinee, are wanted under warrants issued by the Central and Regional Criminal Courts for Corruption and Misconduct. Charges include embezzlement and abuse of official duties.
Investigations revealed that between March 1, 2024, and July 10, 2025, the abbot instructed a monk, Phra Sataya Phumdet, to withdraw temple funds and transfer them to the abbot’s personal account, totaling over 4.1 million baht. Later, 405,000 baht was allegedly transferred from the abbot’s account to Ms. Phuthinee, suggesting a collusive embezzlement scheme.
Phra Sataya confirmed he acted under direct orders and witnessed Ms. Phuthinee meeting with the former abbot multiple times. Authorities arrested the former monk in Nakhon Sawan Province, while Ms. Phuthinee was apprehended in Nakhon Pathom Province.
At 2:25 p.m., Ms. Phuthinee was brought to DACM headquarters for questioning. When approached by reporters, she declined to comment, covering her face with documents as she entered the building. A police briefing is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. today by Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew. (TNA)
