Bangkok: The Crime Suppression Division has indicated that there may be one or two additional individuals involved in the case concerning former monk Sammi Choti and laywoman Sika Ae. The division has escalated the investigation to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to track the financial transactions linked to the duo.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, has disclosed advancements in the investigation involving "former monk Choti" and "Laywoman Ae." The probe is focused on two main areas. Firstly, "former monk Choti" faces allegations of misappropriating temple funds by transferring them into his personal account while issuing donation receipts under the temple's name.

The second part of the investigation aims to trace the financial activities of potential accomplices. The funds in question include receipts for donations, Buddha image rentals, and temple renovations, amounting to over 215 million baht. Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak mentioned that evidence suggests the involvement of a third party, possibly one or two individuals, though their identities as laypeople or monks remain under investigation.

The Crime Suppression Division has already forwarded the necessary documents to AMLO, which is now tasked with verifying the financial records to uncover the embezzlement trail and identify those involved. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities are committed to expediting the process and will provide updates as more information becomes available.