Thailand discovers 73 bodies 'used to aid meditation' at 2 locations

Thai authorities are investigating monks who oversaw two linked Buddhist sites in the northern Thai province of Phichit where 73 bodies were stored without permits.

The investigation involves the Pa Nakhon Chaibovorn monastery in Pho Thale district, where 41 bodies were found last week. On November 25, Thai authorities discovered 32 more bodies at Wat Pa Sivilai temple in Bang Mun Nak district, according to the Bangkok Post on November 26.

Police questioned Phra Ajarn Saifon Pannathito, abbot of Pa Nakhon Chaibovorn monastery. The monk had previously stayed at Wat Pa Sivilai and later left his disciples to supervise the temple.

32 more bodies, 600 crocodiles discovered at Thai retreat site

Bang Mun Nak district governor Thongchai Khimmakthong said the monks involved told authorities that the bodies were used as meditation aids at both locations.

All 73 bodies were buried within the grounds of both Buddhist sites. The abbot of Wat Pa Sivilai told officials that most of the bodies were those of deceased followers and their relatives, and they had agreed to let monks keep the bodies there.

Some of the 41 bodies seen at Pa Nakhon Chaibovorn monastery in Pho Thale district of Phichit province in northern Thailand.

Photo: Bangkok Post screenshot

Mr Thongchai added that authorities would determine whether the presence of 73 bodies at both locations violated cemetery and crematorium management laws.

Local authorities are examining the bodies for identification. They have temporarily closed the Pa Nakhon Chaibovorn Monastery and Wat Pa Sivilai Temple while the investigation is ongoing. The Pa Nakhon Chaibovorn Monastery also has a large cave with about 600 crocodiles.

Pho Thale district chief Rueangdet Soikham said officials would look into any wrongdoing at Buddhist sites, according to the Bangkok Post .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thai-lan-phat-hien-73-thi-the-duoc-dung-ho-tro-hanh-thien-tai-2-dia-diem-18524112710155385.htm