Thai Authorities Continue to Search for Former Abbot at Temple

By Mohd Haikal Mohd Isa BANGKOK, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- Thai authorities continue their search at Wat Dhammakaya here for fugitive former abbot Phra Dhammachayo, wanted for alleged money laundering and embezzlement. As tempers flared between the officers surrounding the 1,000 acres (406.686 ha) temple and its followers, there were reports of scuffles and altercations between the authorities and the temple's followers. National Police Chief Gen Chakthip Chaijinda, in a response to the media Monday, expressed his confidence that the flare up at the temple will not go out of hand, placing importance on negotiations. According to him, the situation was under control and would be resolved by this weekend. He has also warned temple supporters against any online incitement urging followers to gather at the temple and resist any attempts by the authorities to surround and seal off the premise. Government's spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd said that Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha monitored the situation at Wat Dhammakaya "closely." Empowered with Section 44 decree issued by the government, more than 4,000 unarmed police officers, soldiers and Department of Special Investigation (DSI) have been stationed in and around the temple since five days ago. Officers searching the Dhammakaya temple for the former abbot have returned empty handed, but has made several vital discoveries on the lifestyle of Phra Dhammachayo. During their search, they found expensive medical equipment including oxygen chambers installed inside the former abbot's chamber as well as more than a kilometre of secret tunnel dug below the temple. The current whereabouts of Phra Dhammachayo remained a mystery as many quarters alleged that he has fled the temple long before the authorities took action against the temple. Located just outside Bangkok in Pathum Thani province, the temple is known for its gold "UFO-like" dome. -- BERNAMA