Pathum thani: The abbot of Wat Boonchuenchu ??has filed a police report to investigate the disappearance of the golden Buddha hair relic. The relic, originally believed to be a 45-baht (approximately 10.4 kg) gold creation, is at the center of controversy after a viral video revealed it was primarily brass.

According to Thai News Agency, the abbot's report has prompted police to question those involved and work towards apprehending the perpetrators. The case gained attention after a customer took the Buddha's hair relic to Namo Baan Chang Thong, a gold and jewelry shop, for inspection. The inspection revealed that the relic, initially donated by the family and other benefactors about 7-8 years ago, contained only 2-3% gold. Further examination showed no gold presence on the surface.

On April 30, 2026, Phra Khru Pathumpunyophais Phaitoon Charabamrung, the abbot of Wat Boonchuenchoo, officially filed a complaint at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station. He requested an investigation into the missing gold weight, originally donated for casting the Buddha's head.

The abbot explained that in mid-March 2016, a ceremony was held at the temple to cast a gold Buddha statue and a bell. Mr. Nakorn, the sponsor, donated 45 baht weight of gold specifically for the Buddha's hair. A team of about 10 craftsmen, whose affiliation remains unknown, was hired to manage the project. The ceremony was held publicly, and after the mold cooled, the hair was kept in the abbot's quarters for two nights before being taken back by the casting team for final touches.

Once returned, the abbot stored the hair securely in his room, with access limited to himself. The relic was only brought out twice for public display. Investigators are now expediting their questioning of the abbot and other involved parties to establish a timeline and connections related to the gold's disappearance, with plans to summon all involved for further questioning and legal proceedings.