Bangkok: Thai police on Thursday raided the Dhammakaya temple in Khlong Luang district to arrest its abbot, who is wanted on corruption charges. The temple's abbot, Phra Dhammajayo is accused of involvement in money laundering and receiving stolen property worth 1.2 billion baht (about $34 million), the Bangkok Post reported.

He has denied all accusations claiming they are politically motivated. The 72-year-old has for months stayed inside the temple, north of Bangkok, citing poor health to avoid orders to appear before officials.