Authorities are investigating six more high-ranking Buddhist monks allegedly embroiled in a scandal involving a woman known as "Golf," who is accused of seducing and blackmailing senior clergy members. Over 80,000 compromising photographs have been uncovered in the ongoing probe. She has been dubbed the "Thai Red Sister."
(Read more: China's cross-dressing 'Red Sister' lurid tale takes the Internet by storm)
The case came to light after a prominent monastic leader in Phitsanulok was suspected of going into hiding due to his alleged involvement with Golf. Now, five additional monks—some holding the esteemed "Phra Thep" (angelic rank) title—are under scrutiny for reportedly engaging in inappropriate relationships with the woman and transferring money to her.
Venerable Phra Phayom Kalayano, abbot of Wat Suan Kaew in Nonthaburi, described Golf as a predator who specifically targeted senior monks, particularly those who had completed the highest levels of Buddhist studies (Parien 9).
According to investigators, she allegedly lured them into sexual encounters before blackmailing them with explicit photos and videos.
Police were reportedly stunned by the sheer volume of evidence—over 80,000 images of nude monks—found on Golf’s phone.
Sources indicate that her real appearance differed significantly from her social media profiles, raising questions about how she successfully manipulated so many high-ranking clergy members.
The controversy gained national attention in late June when Phra Thep Wachirapamok (also known as Chaokhun Arj), the former abbot of Bangkok’s prestigious Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan, abruptly left the monkhood and reportedly fled to Laos.
Golf, initially referred to as "Miss K," allegedly claimed to be pregnant by him and demanded 7.68 million baht in child support, prompting his sudden departure.
Following this incident, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) discovered that at least 10 senior monks had been involved with Golf, with many disrobing after the scandal became public.
Phitsanulok governor Thawee Sermphakdeekul confirmed that authorities are still verifying whether Phra Rat Ratanasutee, deputy abbot of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, disrobed due to ties with Golf.
Meanwhile, financial records suggest that 10 to 20 senior monks from temples across Thailand—including Phichit, Phetchabun, Khon Kaen, and Samut Sakhon—had transferred money to her, with sums ranging from small amounts to millions of baht.
Investigators have categorized the monks into two groups:
Group 1: Those with confirmed video, photo, and financial evidence
Group 2: Those with only financial records but no visual proof
Authorities continue to summon former monks for questioning.
While some monks have been exonerated—including the abbot of Wat Samma Chanywas in Bangkok, who reportedly gave Golf money out of compassion—others remain under investigation.
An assistant abbot of Wat Sothorn Wararam Worawiharn in Chachoengsao has reportedly gone into hiding following the scandal.
The case has sent shockwaves through Thailand’s Buddhist community, raising concerns about exploitation and misconduct within the clergy. Investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the scheme.
