In a scandal shaking the monastic community, CIB police arrested Phra Wachirayan Wi., also known as Luang Pho Atichot Dhammavaro, aged 66, a monk holding the third-class royal ecclesiastical title and the current abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan, a royal temple in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. He was charged with "official embezzlement, misconduct or neglect of duty, abuse of state official position, conspiracy to launder money, and money laundering." CCTV inside the temple residence captured the abbot openly engaging in sexual relations with a close female devotee, as well as openly committing adultery. It was also found that he embezzled temple funds for personal use before transferring them to the female devotee to disguise the assets, causing damage exceeding 92 million baht.
Recently, Tac Paranuy posted a message about Luang Pu Hon, the former abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan whom he respects, saying
"Former abbot Luang Pu Hon of Wat Phutthaisawan is a monk I respect deeply. He is the real deal, truly a genuine developer..." He then added, "Since he passed away, I have not set foot in the temple again."
Meanwhile, lawyer James Nitithorn commented in agreement, "Oh, this is the real one. The legend of Lek Lai." Many disciples of Luang Pu Hon who saw the post also joined in remembering and honoring the former abbot's good deeds in large numbers.
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