Thailand temple scandal: Monks caught in $12m sex-blackmail scheme; King cancels birthday ceremony invite

Thailand’s Buddhist clergy is facing a major crisis after a sex and extortion scandal involving at least 11 monks came to light this week.

The monks are accused of breaking their celibacy vows and using temple donations to pay hush money to a woman who blackmailed them.

Police say the woman seduced the monks, secretly recorded their sexual acts, and then demanded millions to stay quiet. The scandal involves nearly $12 million in temple funds and is the money donated by worshippers hoping to earn spiritual merit.

The case has shocked many Thais, as Buddhism plays a central role in the country’s culture. “I used to respect the monks,” said Mongkol Sudathip, a 33-year-old motorbike taxi driver. “But not anymore.”

Royal reaction and wider probe

King Maha Vajiralongkorn cancelled the attendance of over 80 monks at his upcoming birthday event, calling their behaviour “inappropriate” and damaging to public trust. The National Office of Buddhism said all monks involved have been defrocked, and a full police investigation is now underway.

Police chief Kitrat Panphet claimed that the scandal does not represent the whole religion, only a few individuals who broke the rules. A new task force is being formed to look deeper into misconduct within temples.

In an interview, the woman at the centre of the scandal admitted she spent up to $90,000 a day while going on luxury shopping trips with monks. Monks in Thailand are supposed to live simply on alms and a monthly stipend of about $170. However, many earn extra money by performing blessings and religious ceremonies, blurring the line between religious duty and personal wealth.

“I now donate to hospitals and schools,” said Mongkol. “It feels more meaningful than giving to temples.”

Not the first scandal

This isn’t the first time the monkhood has faced criticism. In 2017, a former abbot was arrested for laundering $33 million. Earlier this year, another monk was accused of embezzling nearly $10 million to fund gambling.

Experts say public trust is wearing thin. Scholar Danai Preechapermprasit said, “People are beginning to question where their donations go.”

Despite growing doubt, many still separate their belief in Buddhism from the actions of individual monks. “You can lose trust in monks,” said Camphun Parimiphut, a 52-year-old security guard. “But the teachings still guide us.”