Luang Phor Alongkot, 65 at the time of this filming, is abbot of the Wat Phrabatnampu temple in Lopburi, Thailand. He was last month arrested as part of a larger investigation into temple-related misconduct, including laundering temple donations. This arrest follows a long string of alarming allegations. These are sex offences, fraud and money laundering, all back from 2017.
Law enforcement arrested Luang Phor Alongkot at his temple, the home of his notorious activities for decades. He first came into the world’s attention for founding a hospice for HIV/AIDS patients in 1992, increasing his profile as a humanitarian. Amid numerous rumors of mismanaged donations, his legacy has been sullied. As the spotlight across the state—and the nation—intensified, he agreed to step down from his position.
The undercover operation that ultimately arrested Luang Phor Alongkot began with another monk, Seksanand. It didn’t take long before the route extended to include Alongkot. Police discovered that no fewer than nine monks had committed sexual abuse against the woman. In response, they’ve launched a short-term warrior hotline for the public to report any “misbehaving monks.”
Jaroonkiat Pankaew, deputy commissioner of Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau described Luang Phor Alongkot as extremely cooperating with police. He pointed out that Alongkot was, with no prodding or violence, completely willing to undergo disrobement. This collaborative approach might be an indication that there is an understanding of just how grave the charges laid at his feet are.
Luang Phor Alongkot’s arrest followed in quick succession, as the arrest of Seksan Sapsubbsakul soon came to light. This popular influencer was influential in raising enough funds to build the temple. A public figure’s engagement uncovers a huge web of support and funding associated with the temple. This amazing discovery would introduce greater layers of complexity to the mix.
Thailand’s Buddhist state institution is facing a major crisis. Reports estimate that 14,000 monks have violated their celibacy oath, trafficked in narcotics, and embezzled money. These developments are particularly troubling in a country where over 90% of the population professes Buddhism. In this alternative society, monks occupy a highly esteemed position that compounds the significance of the threat.
She said that Luang Phor Alongkot’s case is indicative of a troubling trend. Beyond the headline, it uncovers a deeper problem of abuse and exploitation within the Buddhist monkhood of Thailand. The continuing agency inquiry is still a source of division within the faith community and in society more generally.