Who Is Wilawan Emsawat? Thai Woman Who Honey Trapped Monks, Then Blackmailed Them With Nudes

A significant scandal involving sex and extortion has rocked Thailand, following the arrest of a woman accused of enticing Buddhist monks into sexual relationships and subsequently blackmailing them. This case has captivated public attention as it involves monks violating their vow of celibacy. At least nine senior monks have been expelled from the monkhood, according to the Royal Thai Police Central Investigation Bureau.

Who is Wilawan Emsawat?

Wilawan Emsawat, known as "Ms Golf," was apprehended at her upscale residence in Nonthaburi, near Bangkok. She faces charges including extortion, money laundering, and receiving stolen goods. Investigators discovered messages and intimate videos on her phones involving other Buddhist leaders. The blackmail funds were reportedly used for illegal online gambling.

Monks' Involvement and Public Reaction

Some monks confessed to having relationships with Wilawan, who allegedly contacted them via social media. One monk claimed a long-term relationship with her, even receiving a car as a gift. However, tensions arose when he discovered her involvement with another monk, leading to demands for money. The scandal came to light when an abbot in Bangkok left the monkhood after being blackmailed by Wilawan.

The BBC reports that Wilawan amassed approximately 385 million baht (Rs 102 crore) over three years through this scheme. Police found over 80,000 photos and videos of her engaged in sexual acts with numerous monks at her home, which were used for blackmail purposes. Wilawan also claims she had a child with one of the monks involved.

Impact on the Buddhist Community

The scandal has led to the defrocking of nine monks, including several abbots from prominent temples. A senate committee has suggested amending laws to criminally prosecute women who engage in sexual relations with monks. This proposal has sparked outrage among those who believe men should be accountable for their actions.

Sanitsuda Ekachai, a columnist for the Bangkok Post, commented on the situation: "The scandal exposes a system of lies and hypocrisy among top monks. The sheer number suggests this isn't an isolated case. It's business as usual behind temple walls." She further noted that women are often portrayed negatively in mainstream teachings.

In Thailand, where more than 90% of the population practices Buddhism, scandals involving the Sangha or monastic community are not uncommon. These incidents frequently involve issues related to sex or money. However, the involvement of high-ranking monks in this particular case has made it stand out.