Wat Rai Khing: A pillar of devotion rocked by scandal

13 Sept 11:18 Key points summarised by AI

Wat Rai Khing, a revered Thai temple, faces national controversy after its 70-year-old abbot, Phra Dharma Wachiranuwat, was defrocked for allegedly embezzling over 300 million baht, potentially exceeding 800 million, from temple accounts with an accomplice.
Despite the severe financial scandal, worshippers continue to flock to the temple in large numbers, emphasizing their devotion to the sacred Buddha image and Lord Buddha's teachings rather than the disgraced abbot.
Established in 1851 and known for its sacred Luangphor Wat Rai Khing statue, the temple remains immensely popular and financially robust, generating an estimated 100 million baht annually to fund operations, a school, and various charitable projects.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.