Thai authorities announced on July 16 that they had arrested a woman nicknamed "Ms Golf" on charges of luring, having sex and secretly filming at least 9 monks, then using these sensitive photos and videos to blackmail.
According to the Special Investigation Agency of Thailand (DSI), from 2021 to present, Ms Golf has illegally profited about 385 million baht (equivalent to nearly 12 million USD) by threatening to publish clips, forcing monks to transfer money to cover up. Some of the victims were pillars of famous pagodas in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the Central provinces of Thailand.
During the search of the subject's residence, the police seized more than 80,000 sensitive photos and videos, many electronic devices and detailed books recording money transfers. Some monks were demanded up to 7 million baht (nearly 200,000 USD), forcing them to quietly resolve the matter to avoid a widespread scandal.
DSI said that Ms. Golf's tricks often start by pretending to care about Buddhism, approaching monks through social networks or charity activities, then luring them into relationships, recording clips and sending excerpts as threats. Notably, she also pretended to be pregnant many times, asking to "patrol and raise children" from monks who were trapped.
The police also said that most of the money had been withdrawn and transferred to fake accounts, partly used for online gambling and luxury shopping. Ms Golf is currently facing a series of crimes, including blackmail, money laundering, fraud and possession of assets obtained from illegal acts.
In recent years, the image of the Thai travel industry has been continuously tarnished by scandals related to drugs, sex, money laundering and luxurious lifestyles.
wirapol Sukphol, a monk known for his lavish lifestyle, became the center of international attention in 2017 when he was accused of sexual assault, fraud and money laundering.
In 2022, a pagoda in the northern province of Phetchabun was without any monks after all four monks were arrested in a drug raid.
Under public pressure, the Thai Supreme Youth Union announced that it will coordinate with the government to establish a special committee to review the selection and supervision process for the niger. The Government is also studying amending the law on increasing groups, increasing fines and criminalising violations of public order.
Notably, within just 1 month, Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn revoked the royal decree for 81 monks, citing " improper behavior that damages religious prestige". This is a rare action, showing the determination of the royal court in cleansing the monastic community.
