Malaysian Monk Arrested In Thailand Over Temple Theft

BANGKOK, Nov 22 (Bernama) -- A Malaysian monk has been arrested  in Chiang Rai, the northern province of Thailand, on Thursday for allegedly stealing valuables from Wat Chet Yot temple in Chiang Mai province, according to Thai police.

Superintendent of the Chiang Saen Immigration Checkpoint in Chiang Rai, Pol. Col. Chinakorn Atsawaphum in a statement on Friday said an investigation into the case began after Chang Phueak police in Chiang Mai received a report of missing valuables from the temple.

"Police discovered that the suspect, a Malaysian monk who had been staying at the temple, had disappeared following the theft,” he said, adding that a warrant of arrest was issued by the Chiang Mai Provincial Court on Nov 20.

He said the 50-year-old monk was apprehended near Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong in Chiang Rai province at about 12 noon on Thursday.

"The suspect admitted to being the individual named in the arrest warrant. Investigations into the case are ongoing," Chinakorn added.

Before Thai authorities proceed with legal action, Chinakorn stated that the suspect, who may face charges of residential theft under Thai law, could first be disrobed, stripping him of his monastic status.

-- BERNAMA