Police have arrested an undertaker known as “Uncle Sanom" who is accused of sexually molesting several women during superstitious rites performed on temple grounds in Ang Thong province.
Uncle Sanom, whose real name is Sanom Phiewbang, 82, was apprehended on Monday at a residence in Song district of the northern province of Phrae, according to Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat Pankaeo, deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau.
Since last month, several women have come forward with complaints accusing him of molesting them, claiming he shaved their pubic hair during “cleansing” rites performed at Wat Sing in Wiset Chai Chan district, Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat said.
Police inspecting the site found evidence supporting the allegations and subsequently issued seven arrest warrants for the undertaker, Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat said.
The suspect fled to Phrae after learning about the case, staying with relatives and followers.
Uncle Sanom allegedly admitted to sexual assault but denied threatening the women with a knife, Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat said.
Police also seized a knife and luk karao amulets that the suspect allegedly inserted in the victims’ vaginas during the rites.
The case has been forwarded to investigators for further legal proceedings.
