DSI prepares for ‘full scale’ raid after talks break down
A “FULL SCALE” raid by officials around Dhammakaya Temple was imminent after five-hour talks with the monastery’s senior monks broke down Wednesday.
Department of Special Investigation (DSI) director-general Paisit Wongmuang has ordered police and DSI officers stationed around the vast compound in Pathum Thani to “carry out the plan of implementation in a full-scale manner”, the agency’s deputy spokesman Woranan Srilam said yesterday.
He said more government personnel would be deployed in the operation involving police, DSI and military officers but he declined to be specific about the number of officials.
Paisit is in charge of the operation to arrest the temple’s former abbot, Phra Dhammachayo, who is wanted for alleged money laundering and accepting stolen assets.
The spokesman said Wednesday that it remained unclear when the operation would be completed. He added that authorities were concerned about the possible role of a “third party” and interference by political groups.
During five-hour talks yesterday, Dhammakaya’s vice abbot Phra Dattajivo, who is currently in charge of the temple, refused to allow officials to enter the compound in their hunt for Phra Dhammachayo.
