Investigation into Abbot Shooting: Gunpowder Tests, Motives Explored

The investigation into the shooting of Abbot Phra Athikan Boonlert at Wat Krajomthong is ongoing, with initial findings suggesting the perpetrator may have been familiar with the temple.

The incident is shrouded in mystery due to the lack of witnesses, unusual silence after the shooting, and a malfunctioning CCTV camera at the abbot's quarters.

Eleven individuals associated with the temple, including the abbot, underwent gunpowder residue tests. Nine results are back, with none showing significant findings for most, while two individuals, Pleun and Lamai, await their results.

Police are narrowing down motives to potential jealousy and financial disputes. The abbot admits to past romantic feelings for Lamai and acknowledges lending money.

The abbot confesses to having considered leaving the monkhood for a woman named Lamai, who provided significant care, but ultimately decided against it.

Lamai expresses shock and distress at being linked to the shooting, denying any romantic involvement with the abbot and confirming she was the last to leave his quarters.

Pleun, also a suspect, clarifies his relationship with Lamai as platonic and denies any involvement, stating he is 68 and focused on helping the abbot.

A reconstructed timeline shows Lamai's visit to the abbot's quarters, the abbot's subsequent call to his daughter, and the arrival of others at the scene.

The investigation also considers debt as a motive, with many individuals, including Lamai's daughter, having borrowed money from the abbot, though most loans were repaid.

Police are examining potential escape routes from the temple, including the surrounding farmland, and analyzing footprints found near the abbot's quarters.

The owner of the farmland disputes the significance of footprints found, stating that recent rainfall would have washed them away, casting doubt on their relevance.

Authorities are awaiting further evidence and results, particularly the pending gunpowder residue test results for Pleun and Lamai, to advance the investigation.