The Buddhist Office revealed that Tid Choti, formerly known as Luang Pho Atichoti, cannot reordain because he was defrocked not by his own will, which constitutes a parajik offense.
On 11 Sep 2026 GMT+7, at the Crime Suppression Division, reporters were informed that police arrested "Sami Choti" or "Tid Choti," the former abbot Atichoti of Wat Phutthaisawan, a royal temple and famous temple in Ayutthaya, originator of the revered Jatukam amulet "Nuea Duang" model, for embezzling over 100 million baht donated to the temple, along with Ms. Punyavee (nickname Sika Aeh). The arrests took place on the morning of 10 Sep 2026 GMT+7.
The Central Investigation Bureau joined forces with the Anti-Money Laundering Office and the Buddhist Office to search six locations in four provinces: Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Buriram. They seized converted assets totaling 215 million baht hidden in various spots in the monk's quarters, including 144 million baht in Thai and foreign currency cash, gold bars and jewelry weighing 1,066 baht, numerous amulets, and 28 land deeds.
Authorities will continue to investigate to identify additional offenders. They will separate the seized funds to distinguish personal money from temple funds and remove corrupt individuals from the temple to restore public trust and faith.
Mr. Kritsakorn Sanit Sakdee, Inspector at the National Office of Buddhism, explained that the former abbot Atichoti was defrocked not voluntarily but due to a parajik offense, which means he cannot reordain.
Regarding temple finances, the Buddhist Office has implemented a QR code system in all temples, ensuring every baht is deposited directly into the temple’s account. However, in some areas, donation boxes remain for elderly donors and cannot yet be removed. Donors who use the QR code system can claim tax deductions.
Mr. Kritsakorn added that to prevent corruption, the Buddhist Office randomly inspects temples with substantial income to guard against possible fraud. He emphasized that the office is taking these issues seriously and not neglecting them.