Police in Thailand have arrested a well-known spiritual practitioner known as “Ajarn Suea Ban Fon” over allegations involving the sexual assault of his 18-year-old stepdaughter during so-called “karma cleansing” rituals.
The suspect, identified as Kamolthep, 43, was detained by officers from Hang Dong Police Station following an arrest warrant issued by the Chiang Mai Provincial Court.
Authorities raided his residence in Hang Dong district, Chiang Mai, where officers also discovered multiple firearms, ammunition and several methamphetamine pills during the search.
Police said the seized weapons included six handguns, an air rifle and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Investigators revealed the suspect was previously a monk and later became widely known for spiritual ceremonies involving sacred tattoos, fortune rituals and so-called karma cleansing sessions.
According to police, he reportedly had a large following of disciples from both Thailand and overseas, especially from China and Taiwan.
The case began after the victim’s mother lodged a police report on May 9, accusing the suspect of repeatedly assaulting her daughter.
Investigators later gathered evidence before obtaining a court warrant for the suspect’s arrest.
According to the victim’s statement, the alleged incidents began in January 2024 after the suspect claimed she needed a ritual to remove bad luck from her life.
The teenager alleged she was brought to a motel under the pretext of a spiritual ceremony before being threatened and assaulted.
Police said the victim claimed the suspect used intimidation and displayed a firearm during the incidents, causing her to fear for her safety.
The victim allegedly remained silent for months because she was afraid of retaliation and because the family was living under the same roof as the suspect.
Her mother later revealed she had trusted the spiritual teacher for years and had participated in his rituals and blessing ceremonies before eventually marrying him in 2021.
She said she was shocked after her daughter finally revealed the alleged abuse earlier this year.
Authorities confirmed the suspect denied the allegations during questioning.
A background check also reportedly found the suspect had previously served prison time in 2008 in connection with methamphetamine possession.
Police said investigations are ongoing while the suspect remains in custody for further legal proceedings.
