Skeletal remains found under That Thong Temple prayer hall

A rotting wooden coffin containing a woman’s skeleton has been uncovered beneath the floor of a 155-year-old hall at That Thong Temple in Bangkok.

The red coffin was unearthed on July 18 by ‘Jedsada’, a 21-year-old construction labourer, while he was installing jacks in the Limpaporn prayer hall as part of a project to add a third storey. The Jedsada immediately notified temple officials, who then alerted the authorities.

Pol. Lt. Col Chakrawut Donprajam, from the Klong Tan police station, led a team to the temple on Sukhumvit Road to investigate the scene.

Inside the coffin, police found a female skeleton, which is believed to have been buried there for at least 50 years. Also found inside were a stainless steel tray and four 50-satang coins dating back to 1957.

Forensic officers and doctors from Chulalongkorn Hospital examined the coffin, the remains and the accompanying items. All five objects have been impounded as evidence.

Police said initial assessments suggest foul play is unlikely. Investigators believe the deceased was a prominent donor who helped fund the construction of the prayer hall and was subsequently buried there by relatives to rest close to the main Buddha image.

The police inquiry is ongoing.