Abbot Of Prominent Monastery Being Investigated For Money Laundering

The abbot of the Khantitham Forest Monastery in Thailand has learned that even Buddhist monks need to be careful about videos posted on YouTube.

After Luang Pu Nenkham Chattigo, described by the U.K. newspaper The Telegraph as the "flamboyant" abbot of the monastery, was shown on YouTube apparently living the high life on a private jet, he has had his assets frozen by Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO).

But the video isn't the monk's only headache. There is also a photograph reportedly circulating on the internet of him lying next to a woman who appears to be naked, which has caused further outrage. He is believed to have fathered two children, and to have had sexual relationships with at least eight women. Buddhist monks are supposed to be celibate.

The Telegraph reports that 16 bank accounts held by the abbot and his associates have been frozen. 10 of those are in the monk's name. He has been warned that any attempt to transfer funds from any of the accounts will be construed as money laundering, which carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years in Thailand.

Daily transactions through the accounts average about $6 million. The AMLO said it is looking into whether the money came from donations to the monastery. The abbot is said to be traveling in Europe.

(Image from YouTube video.)

FMI: www.thaibuddhism.net