Head monk at China's Shaolin Temple under investigation
The Buddhist temple in China's inland Henan Province revealed in a statement on Sunday that abbot Shi Yongxin is being probed by multiple agencies.
The statement said the abbot is suspected of misappropriating temple assets and having maintained improper relationships with multiple women over an extended period, in violation of Buddhist teachings, and fathering at least one child.
Chinese media say the abbot has served as deputy head of the Buddhist Association of China, and as a delegate to the National People's Congress.
He is also reported to have been referred to as "CEO monk" for setting up affiliated companies and launching a wide variety of businesses, including food services and clothing.
Shaolin Temple is famous for its martial arts tradition, known as kung fu.
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