Phuket-
A revered temple in the heart of Phuket was the site of a shocking act of violence early Saturday morning, when a monk allegedly shot and killed a fellow monk, citing long-term bullying and mistreatment as the motive.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:42 a.m. inside the bathroom of Wat Khao Rang, a prominent hilltop temple adjacent to Vachira Phuket Hospital. Authorities responded after receiving a report from hospital staff that a monk had been fatally shot on temple grounds.
Police investigators, forensic officers, and rescue workers arrived at the scene to find the lifeless body of 36-year-old Phra Niwat Saetkit lying on the black marble-tiled bathroom floor. He had sustained four gunshot wounds to the neck, chest, and right arm. Four .38 caliber shell casings and a bullet were recovered at the scene.
Police quickly detained 47-year-old Phra Jaruek Sinphan, who remained on temple grounds following the shooting. Officers seized a black Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver, which was later discovered hidden in his monk’s living quarters, along with 14 additional rounds of ammunition and a black holster.
Phra Jaruek was defrocked on-site and taken into custody for formal questioning. Initial statements to police suggest the suspect claimed he had endured ongoing harassment and bullying by the victim. The tension allegedly culminated that morning when the victim entered the bathroom with his phone playing loudly. Phra Jaruek followed with a loaded revolver, opened the unlocked door, and fired multiple times before reloading his weapon and hiding it in his quarters.
The suspect remains in custody at Phuket City Police Station as investigators gather evidence and prepare formal charges.
The incident has deeply shaken the local community and raised concerns about conflict resolution and mental well-being within religious institutions. Wat Khao Rang, known for its serene atmosphere and popular golden Buddha statue, is now confronting the aftermath of violence within its sanctified walls.
