BANGKOK — When Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew appeared at temple gates across Thailand this week, he wasn’t there to pray. The deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) was on a mission: arresting senior monks accused of misconduct the moment they stepped out of ordination halls.
Known by his nickname “Big Tao,” the 56-year-old officer has become the face of Thailand’s high-stakes cleanup of its Buddhist monastic order. His latest assignment follows a scandal that erupted after police raided the home of Wilawan “Sika Golf” Emsawat, a woman linked to the alleged misuse of temple funds. Instead of financial records, investigators uncovered compromising videos and photos involving several high-ranking monks.
The Scandal Unfolds
- Wilawan was arrested Tuesday on related charges.
- At least 11 monks have been defrocked so far.
- More are under investigation as authorities expand the probe.
The case has forced the government to act swiftly. On July 14, the CIB launched the “Centre for the Promotion and Preservation of Buddhist Discipline and Ethics,” a new unit allowing the public to report monk misconduct directly.
“Big Tao”: The Monk Hunter
Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat is no stranger to temple corruption cases. His resume includes:
- Wat Rai Khing scandal: Uncovered 2 billion baht embezzled across 84 bank accounts.
- Yaem Inkrungkao case: Exposed a monk funneling millions to an online gambling broker.
- 2017 crackdown: Defrocked monks involved in sex crimes, fraud, and political activism.
In a 2017 interview, he stated:
“If they violate monastic rules but not the law, they leave monkhood. But those posting obscene content or committing crimes face arrest.”
Public Reaction & Next Steps
The scandal has shaken public trust in Thailand’s monastic community, prompting calls for tighter oversight. Meanwhile, Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat remains on the frontlines, ensuring that monastic discipline aligns with legal accountability.
As investigations continue, one thing is clear: “Big Tao” isn’t backing down.
More: CIB Thailand | 📞 Report Monk Misconduct: 191 (Thai Police Hotline)
