Thai abbot arrested for embezzling $9M in temple funds for gambling

A revered Thai abbot's secret gambling spree with temple money leaves devotees stunned. How did 300M baht vanish into online baccarat? Investigators now trace deeper corruption at one of Thailand's richest religious sites.

, and Administrator

2026 May 8 . 8:13 AM

1 min read

The image shows a group of incense sticks burning in a Buddhist temple, with smoke billowing out of... — The image shows a group of incense sticks burning in a Buddhist temple, with smoke billowing out of the pots and illuminating the area. In the background, there are pillars and a wall, adding to the atmosphere of the temple.

Thai abbot arrested for embezzling $9M in temple funds for gambling

The abbot of Wat Rai Khing, one of Thailand’s wealthiest religious sites, has been arrested for allegedly embezzling temple funds. Authorities claim he diverted at least 300 million baht ($9.06 million) to online gambling, with total suspicious transactions exceeding 500 million baht ($15.1 million). The case has shocked supporters as investigations reveal deeper financial mismanagement. The scandal came to light after a lengthy investigation into the abbot’s financial activities. P.D.W., the head of Wat Rai Khing, reportedly borrowed money from other senior monks as temple funds dwindled. Evidence suggests he funneled large sums into online baccarat betting.

A female broker, identified only as A.W., was also arrested for facilitating the transfers. She allegedly helped move the money into gambling platforms. The abbot eventually surrendered to police, where he was met by senior officers from the Crime Suppression Division.

Within hours of his surrender, the Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant. The abbot’s legal status may shift further as court proceedings continue. The case has exposed serious financial irregularities at a prominent temple. With over 500 million baht in questionable transactions, investigators are now tracing the full extent of the misused funds. The outcome of the trial will determine the abbot’s future and potential repercussions for Wat Rai Khing.