Authorities are intensifying their investigation into a video showing individuals dressed like monks gathering under a Bodhi tree along the Korat moat, drinking alcohol and sniffing glue. The Office of Buddhism is working with police on a crackdown. It remains unclear whether the individuals are genuine monks or impostors.
A disturbing video has circulated among Buddhists showing a group dressed like monks congregating under a Bodhi tree along the moat behind the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Administrative Organization. They were seen drinking alcohol and sniffing glue, sparking public criticism over the damage to the image of Buddhism.
At 10:30 a.m. on 22 April 2026, Dr. Pornpana Saenkarun, director of the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Office of Buddhism, together with Police Colonel Sirichai Srichai Panya, superintendent of Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station, and Phra Prasert Achiwaro, monastic disciplinarian and representative of the district monastic authority, led officials and related agencies to inspect the scene immediately. Although the individuals seen in the video had fled before their arrival, officials found substantial evidence left behind at the site, including two used glue bags, glue cans, bottles of white liquor, mats, pillows, and cooking utensils.
Dr. Pornpana Saenkarun explained that the area is a blind spot with an underground tunnel-like recess, making it invisible from outside and thus an easy place for illicit gatherings. The Office of Buddhism is deeply concerned by the incident and has coordinated with local monastic authorities to verify the status of the individuals involved. If they are confirmed monks, strict disciplinary action will be taken, potentially including defrocking. If they are impostors, the police will prosecute them under the law. She emphasized the need to resolve this matter to preserve the faith of Korat residents.
Police Colonel Sirichai Srichai Panya, superintendent of Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station, stated that he has ordered patrol units to intensify checks at vulnerable locations citywide. The investigative team has been tasked with gathering evidence from photos and videos and interviewing nearby residents to quickly identify and apprehend the individuals involved, aiming to prevent future misconduct.
Meanwhile, Phra Prasert Achiwaro, district monastic representative, said the monastic authorities have received the video evidence and are currently verifying the monks' affiliations. They have contacted local temples to assist in monitoring. He urged the public to promptly report any suspicious or inappropriate behavior to the police or the provincial Office of Buddhism so that authorities can respond and investigate swiftly and effectively.