The search was conducted under the observation of Pathum Thani chief monk Phra Thep Rattanasuthee and provincial governor Surachai Khan-asa.

The DSI team, led by DSI chief Pol Colonel Paisit Wongmuang, was scheduled to raid the six-storey Boon Raksa building, which is believed to be the former abbot’s hideout.

Before the raid yesterday, the temple said it had allowed the DSI to thoroughly search the 130-rai Zone A, the 196-rai Zone B as well as the Boon Raksa building behind the temple.

The raids should be completed by the evening and results will be announced later.