Civic network files complaints over embattled monk

Civic network files complaints over embattled monk

A civic network has filed a police complaint of fraud against controversial monk Phra Wirapol Sukphol, better known as Luang Pu Nen Kham Chattiko.

Khantitham forest monastery in Kanthararom district of Si Sa Ket province is nearly empty Wednesday amid the ongoing probe into abbot Luang Pu Nen Kham Chattiko over possible fraud. THITI WANNAMONTHA

Songkran Atchariyasup, leader of the network against acts that destroy the nation, religion and the monarchy, filed the complaint Wednesday with the Crime Suppression Division.

He also lodged a request with Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) chief Seehanat Prayoonrat asking him to investigate the monk's finances. The move followed Amlo deputy secretary-general Suwanee Sawaengpol's announcement on Tuesday that 200 million baht is being circulated in daily transactions from 10 accounts belonging to Phra Wirapol and his close associates.

Mr Songkran questioned how Phra Wirapol had obtained such a large amount of money.

"Mr Wirapol could have raised the money from Buddhists' through his books and video clips on YouTube," Mr Songkran said.

Pol Lt Col Teerapong Dulyavicharn, acting director of the Financial Intelligence and Investigation Bureau at Amlo, said more than 150 million baht had been circulating in Phra Wirapol's personal accounts since 2010.

Amlo is probing accounts which are suspicious. It has banned the monk and his associates from transferring any assets as it investigates allegations of money laundering.

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