His amulets are believed by devotees to attract wealth, turn fortunes around and bring good luck. Now, the monk behind them is caught up in a major financial investigation, with police also reportedly discovering footage of him having sex with a woman. Luang Pho Choti, the 66-year-old abbot of Thailand’s Wat Phutthaisawan, was arrested early on September 10, 2026, over alleged embezzlement and money laundering involving more than 92 million baht, approximately RM11.32 million.
Once known among followers for blessings and amulets, Luang Pho Choti now finds his name linked to missing temple funds, a female associate and a sex scandal. The contrast is striking: a monk associated with promises of prosperity now faces questions about where a huge sum of temple money went. Related report: Thai Enquirer
Amulets Associated With Wealth and Luck, a Monk Caught in Scandal
Luang Pho Choti attracted followers through his amulets, which some devotees believe can bring wealth and good fortune. Thai media also reported that the temple’s “Nuea Duang” amulets are popular among believers. For those seeking prosperity or a change in luck, the reputation of the monk behind an amulet can play an important role in building that trust.
This time, however, he is making headlines over a financial investigation involving more than 92 million baht, rather than another story of blessings or good fortune. The gap between his religious reputation and the allegations has made the case as much a story about faith and trust as it is about money.
Temple Funds Allegedly Diverted Through a Close Female Associate
According to Khaosod English, police accuse Luang Pho Choti of diverting temple funds for personal use before passing them to a close female associate to conceal or transform the assets. Investigators examined more than 20 donation-receipt certificates allegedly issued without authorisation in the temple’s name over more than two years, with estimated losses exceeding 92 million baht.
Police began investigating after receiving a tip-off and arrested the abbot at the temple on September 10. The allegations include embezzlement, abuse of official duties and money laundering. The woman was also detained and has become a key figure in efforts to trace the money.
Financial Investigation Also Uncovers Alleged Sexual Relationship
While reviewing CCTV footage from the abbot’s quarters, police reportedly discovered recordings showing Luang Pho Choti having sex with the woman. An investigation initially focused on temple finances therefore also exposed a scandal involving monastic discipline.
Investigators are examining transactions through the woman’s accounts, which reportedly handled tens of millions of baht annually. They are continuing to gather evidence to establish her role in the movement of funds. The alleged sexual relationship and financial links have placed her at the centre of the case.
Reputation for Powerful Amulets Drew Followers Beyond Thailand
Luang Pho Choti is well known in Thai Buddhist circles, with his amulets believed by some followers to offer blessings of wealth and good fortune. His following extends beyond Thailand to other parts of Southeast Asia and the wider region. The financial allegations and sex scandal have reportedly left some devotees who trusted and respected him shocked.
Some online commenters contrasted his public image as a disciplined, devoted monk with the allegations, accusing him of secretly living a life of sexual indulgence and excess.
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