Chiang Rai Meditation Centre Under Investigation
Forestry officials and police are investigating the Cherntawan International Meditation Centre in Chiang Rai for land encroachment in a protected forest. The centre, operated by Phra Maha Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi, reportedly occupies 190 rai, exceeding its permitted 143 rai. The probe, led by Thai authorities, will conclude in seven days with possible legal actions if allegations are verified.
Thai police and forestry officials have initiated an investigation into the Cherntawan International Meditation Centre in Chiang Rai's Muang district over concerns it has encroached on protected forest land.
The centre, run by renowned preacher Phra Maha Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi, is allegedly occupying 190 rai, exceeding the permitted 143 rai.
Officials are examining approximately 47 rai thought to be in the Doi Pui National Forest Reserve.
Inspector Pol Lt Gen Yodsawat Aekkul and Forest Resource Management Office's Prasit Thachang are spearheading the investigation.
The Vimuttayalai Foundation initially obtained permission from forestry authorities to operate on 113 rai, later expanding to 143 rai.
Now under scrutiny for the unauthorized extra land use, officials, led by Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, aim to complete the probe in seven days.
Surachai Achalaboon of the Royal Forest Department warns of possible charges under the National Forest Reserve Act and potential demolition of the centre’s structures if infractions are confirmed.
This investigation also follows controversy surrounding Phra Vajiramedhi for his teachings linked to The iCon Group fraud case.
The centre, run by renowned preacher Phra Maha Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi, is allegedly occupying 190 rai, exceeding the permitted 143 rai.
Officials are examining approximately 47 rai thought to be in the Doi Pui National Forest Reserve.
Inspector Pol Lt Gen Yodsawat Aekkul and Forest Resource Management Office's Prasit Thachang are spearheading the investigation.
The Vimuttayalai Foundation initially obtained permission from forestry authorities to operate on 113 rai, later expanding to 143 rai.
Now under scrutiny for the unauthorized extra land use, officials, led by Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, aim to complete the probe in seven days.
Surachai Achalaboon of the Royal Forest Department warns of possible charges under the National Forest Reserve Act and potential demolition of the centre’s structures if infractions are confirmed.
This investigation also follows controversy surrounding Phra Vajiramedhi for his teachings linked to The iCon Group fraud case.
