Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of the Shaolin Temple Photo: VCG 

The People's Procuratorate of Xinxiang City has approved the arrest of Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of the Shaolin Temple, on embezzlement of duties, misappropriation of funds and bribery by non-state personnel, the Xinhua News Agency reported. 

Previously, Shi Yongxin has been placed under investigation by multiple departments for the charge of criminal offenses. 

The case of Shi was investigated by the Xinxiang Municipal Public Security Bureau, designated by the Henan Provincial Public Security Department. The Xinxiang Municipal Public Security Bureau then requested the Xinxiang Municipal People's Procuratorate to approve the arrest. Recently, the Xinxiang Municipal People's Procuratorate approved the arrest of Shi Yongxin on suspicion of embezzlement, misappropriation of funds and accepting bribes as a non-state employee, Xinhua reported. 

On July 27, the management office of Shaolin Temple issued a notification, stating that Shi was suspected of criminal offenses, including embezzling project funds and temple assets; seriously violating Buddhist precepts by maintaining long-term improper relationships with multiple women and fathering illegitimate children.

"He is currently under joint investigation by multiple departments. Relevant information will be released to the public in a timely manner," the statement read.

 On July 28, the Buddhist Association of China issued a statement, pointing out that the actions of Shi are extremely egregious, severely damaging the reputation of the Buddhist community and the image of monks.

"In accordance with relevant regulations, the association agrees to cancel the ordination certificate of Shi Yongxin (secular name: Liu Yingcheng)," the statement wrote.  

Born in September 1965, Shi became a monk at Shaolin Temple in 1981. He has been serving on a role as the 30th abbot of the temple since 1999. In September 2002, Shi was elected as a vice chairman of the Buddhist Association of China. 

Global Times