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Former Abbot 'Sami Chot' Arrested for Embezzlement and Money Laundering
Thairath•30:43•Crime•
News
A former abbot and his close associate are detained after a massive embezzlement scheme involving temple funds and luxury assets was uncovered.
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Events
Sami Chot previously worked as a spirit medium in Ladprao before ordaining.
Sami Chot became the abbot of Wat Phutai Sawan after the previous abbot passed away.
Sika Ae was declared bankrupt in 2019 and later recovered her financial status by 2022.
Sami Chot used fake donation receipts to divert funds into the Huan Chot Foundation starting in late 2025.
CIB conducted a 2-month secret investigation following whistleblower reports.
September 10, 2026: Sami Chot and Sika Ae were arrested in a multi-province operation.
September 11, 2026: Both suspects were detained by the court in Saraburi and denied bail.
Who & What's Involved
Wat Phutai SawanCentral Investigation Bureau (CIB)Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO)Huan Chot FoundationSaraburi Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct CasesLead News AnchorPol. Lt. Col. KritsadaPol. Col. Niphath SiriwatPhra Baidika SarawutAnutin Charnvirakul
Topics
Temple EmbezzlementMoney LaunderingBuddhist Clergy MisconductAmulet FraudAsset Seizure
Locations
Wat Phutai Sawan, AyutthayaSaraburiBangkokPathum ThaniBuriram