Chakthip said such controversies should not be allowed to occur, while other organisations had already started reforms.

Chakthip added that he had not delayed the operation for police to enter Dhammakaya Temple to arrest the fugitive monk, who is charged with money laundering and receiving stolen assets linked to the Klongchan Credit Union Cooperative embezzlement case, as well as separate land-encroachment charges.

He said police had not raided the temple because they were working on related cases, adding that the arrest of such a prominent suspect had to be done “by the book”, considering all factors to prevent events from getting out of control.

He added that police could apply for a search warrant relating to the temple at any time.

Chakthip said Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha did not need to use the absolute power afforded by the interim charter’s Article 44.

He added that the former abbot’s surrender would solve many problems.

Chakthip said police would also proceed with legal action against Ongart Thamnita, spokesman of the Dhammakaya disciples group. Ongart has failed to present himself to police in response to an arrest warrant citing defamation but authorities believe he is still in Thailand.

Meanwhile, a high-ranking police source said the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission had found a radio transmitter in the temple that had been allegedly installed illegally, with police discussing the possibility of further legal action.

The source added that the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) would have to explain to a court why the department had not raided the temple last week in line with a search warrant that was valid until last Friday.

Police have not applied for another search warrant, the source said, adding that they would wait to see if the DSI applies for a warrant first.

Meanwhile, Dhammakaya Temple adherents yesterday continued to make merit at the temple in Pathum Thani’s Klong Luang district.

Meanwhile, police posted 17 signs around the temple, prohibiting the demolition of walls that were allegedly built illegally, and which are now subject to an ongoing investigation.