BANGKOK, THAILAND – Anti-trafficking police in Bangkok arrested two monks accused of serious sexual offences against temple novices and of producing illegal recordings.
Tip from child protection group triggered raid
The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) acted after a report from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women claimed that novices at a temple in Sathon district had been assaulted by monks. Following the complaint, ATPD commander Pol Maj Gen Wittaya Sriprasertpap ordered a search of the temple compound and the arrest of the suspects.
The men were identified as Phra Khru Sankharak Chondaen and Phramaha Sivabutr, both 24 years old. Investigators believed they used their positions in the temple hierarchy to exert control over underage novices.
Allegations of abuse and criminal recordings
According to investigators, the suspects faced accusations including rape through coercion and sexual abuse of minors under 15. They were also alleged to have produced obscene recordings for distribution and to have possessed child pornography, with incitement to misconduct additionally under consideration.
Police said these charges were based on investigative findings and on the confessions of the detained monks. Officers were examining whether other individuals might have acted as accomplices or had prior knowledge of the alleged crimes.
Findings during the temple search
During the raid, officers seized about 100 incriminating video clips, gambling equipment and alcoholic beverages from the temple. The confiscated recordings were being treated as key evidence in the case.
While the search was under way, four more novices came forward to speak with investigators and said they had also been affected. This brought the possible number of victims to as many as seven.
Legal process and possible penalties
Authorities said both suspects had confessed and were being prosecuted. They were expected to face court over multiple serious offences, while the investigation continued.
Police had not yet disclosed whether people beyond the two directly accused monks were being examined in connection with the temple.
Protection of minors in religious settings
The case prompted debate in Thailand about how to better protect minors in religious institutions. Specialists pointed out that dependency within hierarchical structures required specific safeguards.
The Pavena Foundation, whose tip initiated the investigation, was supporting the affected novices. The organisation in Thailand focuses on cases in which children and women become victims of crime.