Following criticism of Paiboon, with some monk groups even demanding he step down for his alleged disrespectful behaviour on the issue of seeking Somdej Chuang’s testimony in the case, coordinator Kanchanacharat Sarinyawat said the 10 networks thought Paiboon’s action was sufficiently respectful.

Meanwhile, DSI deputy chief Pol Lt-Colonel Somboon Sarasit, who met members of the networks, said summons for Somdej Chuang had not yet been issued pending the investigators’ meeting with prosecutors. He revealed that assistant abbot Phra Maha Satsanamunee had already testified on Monday as witness. Investigator Pol Lt-Colonel Weerawat Dechboonpa said the assistant abbot insisted he had bought the car from Wicharn Garage without knowledge of the illegal aspects.