Thailand Temple Scandal: Monks were caught in a $ 12M sex-blackmail scheme; King Cancell invites birthday celebrations

Thailand’s Buddhist priests are facing a major crisis after a sex and forced recovery, including at least 11 monks this week. The monks are accused of breaking their celibacy vows and using temple donations to pay a fate to a woman, which blackmailed her.Police say the woman entertained the monks, secretly recorded her sexual acts, and then demanded millions to remain silent. The scam includes about $ 12 million in the Temple Fund and is the amount donated by worshipers expecting to earn spiritual qualifications.The case has shocked many This, as Buddhism plays a central role in the culture of the country. “I used to respect the monks,” said 33 -year -old motorbike taxi driver Mongkol Sudathip. “but not anymore.”

Royal reaction and comprehensive investigation

King Maha Vajiralongcorn canceled the presence of more than 80 monks in his upcoming birthday incident, called their behavior “inappropriate” and harmful to the public trust. The National Office of Buddhism said that all the monks involved in it have been separated, and now a complete police investigation is going on.Police chief Kitrat Panfate claimed that the scam does not represent the whole religion, only a few individuals who broke the rules. A new task force is being formed to see deeply in misconduct within temples.In an interview, the woman at the center of the scandal admitted that she spent up to $ 90,000 a day while going on luxury shopping trips with the monks. In Thailand, monks should just stay at a begging and a monthly stipend of about $ 170. However, many people earn extra money by blurring religious duties and personal wealth, performing blessings and religious ceremonies.“I now donate to hospitals and schools,” said Mongkol. “It seems more meaningful than giving temples.”

Not the first scam

This is not the first time the monk has faced criticism. In 2017, a former Mathadhish was arrested for looting $ 33 million. Earlier this year, another monk was accused of embezzling about $ 10 million to fund gambling.Experts say the public trust is wearing thin. Scholar Danai Precharprasit said, “People have started questioning where their donations go.”Despite increasing doubts, many still distinguish their beliefs from the actions of individual monks in Buddhism. “You can lose trust in monks,” said Campun Perimifoot, a 52 -year -old security guard. “But teachings still guide us.”