Shaolin Temple leader under investigation on suspicion of embezzling funds

Shi Yongxin is the abbot of Shaolin Temple. Picture: Chinatopix via AP

China’s famous Shaolin Temple has announced that its abbot is under investigation on suspicion of misappropriation and embezzlement of project funds and temple assets.

Shi Yongxin was alleged to have committed criminal offences and seriously violated the Buddhist precepts by maintaining relationships with multiple women over a long period and fathering at least one child, according to a notice from the temple’s authority on its WeChat account.