2025-07-19T06:44:47Z

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Imagine the shockwave through a nation when a revered religious institution is embroiled in a scandal exposing both hypocrisy and exploitation. That's exactly what happened in Thailand, where a woman, dubbed 'Ms Golf,' was arrested for allegedly having sexual relations with several Buddhist monks and extorting them for millions to keep explicit content under wraps.

This jaw-dropping story pulls back the curtain on Thailand's cherished Buddhist institution, which has long stood as a pillar of moral guidance. Yet, in recent years, its veneer has cracked due to scandals involving monks in illicit activities. Ms Golf is said to have raked in around 385 million baht, or $11.9 million, over three years by leveraging her relationships with at least nine monks.

During a July 15 press conference, investigators disclosed that more than 80,000 photos and videos were discovered in her possession. These were used to blackmail monks across various temples. 'We checked her financial trail and found it involves many temples,' explained Jaroonkiat Pankaew of the Thai police's central investigation bureau.

The unraveling began in mid-June when an abbot abruptly left the monkhood after falling victim to extortion. Ms Golf claimed to be pregnant with his child, demanding over seven million baht in support. As authorities dug deeper, they found that other monks had similarly transferred money to her, often used for online gambling.

This scandal has prompted calls for reform within the Buddhist community. The Sangha Supreme Council announced a special committee to review monastic regulations, while the government seeks harsher penalties for monks who violate their vows. Even the king has entered the fray, revoking titles and highlighting the disillusionment among Buddhists who hold monks in high regard.

In a country where over 90% of the population identifies as Buddhist, these revelations strike at the heart of cultural and spiritual life. With past scandals echoing similar themes, like the infamous case of the jet-setting monk Wirapol Sukphol, there's a growing outcry for change in an institution steeped in hierarchy and tradition. Critics argue that the focus on Ms Golf overshadows systemic issues within the Sangha, which allows for the accumulation of wealth and power without accountability.