The Anti-Money Laundering Commission plans to discuss the issue of 215 million baht linked to Phutthaisawan Temple, urging the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to trace the money flow, seize assets, and expand investigations to other potentially involved individuals.
On 13 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Phitakdej Deddecho, Chairman of the Anti-Money Laundering and Narcotics Commission of the House of Representatives and Democrat Party MP for Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, revealed that the commission is preparing to review the financial investigation related to the former abbot of Phutthaisawan Temple and associated persons. This is to establish facts and monitor the operations of relevant agencies within the commission's authority.
This follows reports that the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) has collected data and evidence to hand over to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for financial tracing. They found transactions involving donations, income from amulet leasing, and temple restoration funds totaling over 215 million baht. The investigation is ongoing to trace the money flow and expand to other potentially involved individuals.
Mr. Phitakdej stated that this case involves key issues related to money flow, transfers, and asset ownership, including verifying whether these transactions or assets are connected to offenses under anti-money laundering laws. This matter falls directly within the commission's mandate to study and ascertain facts.
Furthermore, the commission's review will focus on monitoring financial tracing processes, expanding inquiries to related parties, tracking asset seizures or freezes from illegal activities, and listening to challenges faced by officials enforcing the law. They affirmed they will not interfere with prosecutions or judgments, which are the jurisdiction of judicial authorities.
"This case involves a significant amount of money under investigation and has attracted widespread public and social interest. The commission deems it appropriate to follow up on the progress of financial tracing and anti-money laundering enforcement, to see where the money and assets have been transferred or held, and whether responsible agencies have fully and effectively applied legal measures regarding assets related to offenses," Mr. Phitakdej said.
The chairman of the Anti-Money Laundering Commission added that he will formally bring this matter to the commission meeting to receive official updates from related agencies, aiming for efficient, transparent action that leads to the recovery of assets linked to criminal conduct according to legal procedures.