Phra Dhammajayo, the former abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, has not been seen publicly since he was charged by the Department of Special Investigation in 2016. TV SCREEN CAPTUREThe case against Phra Dhammajayo has been terminated after exceeding the 10-year statute of limitations, bringing an end to long-running proceedings without a trial. In 1970, with initial funds of only 3,200 baht, Wat Phra Dhammakaya was established on a 196-rai plot of land donated by a devotee. Although Supachai maintained the transfers were donations, the DSI pursued charges against Phra Dhammajayo, arguing the money originated from the embezzlement scheme. The termination of the Phra Dhammajayo case raises several systemic concerns.

Source: Bangkok Post March 29, 2026 23:06 UTC