Activist monk Phra Buddha Isara has visited the Crime Suppression Division to try to clear the air over accusations he violated the lese majeste law.
Accompanied by his lawyer, the well-known monk, who was one of the leading campaigners responsible for ousting the former Pheu-Thai government reported to the Crime Suppression Division office Tuesday morning and spent one hour talking with police.
"I had been informed that police investigators came to interrogate people at Wat Orm Noy. I have also been informed that the police are preparing to raid the temple. So, I came today to give information that the police might need," said Phra Buddha Isara, known as Phra Suvit Theerathammo, abbot of Wat Orm Noy Temple in Nakhon Pathom.
His move came after an accusation of lese majeste was made against him. In April last year, Wichai Prasertsutsiri, coordinator of an organisation that promotes Buddhism, reportedly lodged a petition with the CSD, accusing Phra Buddha Isara of producing Buddhist amulets eight years ago bearing the emblem of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The King passed away last October.
The sacred amulets, called Phra Nak Prok bore the royal emblem and Mr Wichai said he was unsure if Phra Buddha Isara had been granted royal permission to use it.
In addition, some of the monk's blood was allegedly used during the blessing ceremony, which was considered inappropriate. Adverts for the amulets were also found on a number of websites.
Mr Wichai said the monk may have breached Section 112 of the charter if he used the emblem without permission.
