The People's Procuratorate of Xinxiang city, Henan province, central China, approved the arrest warrant for Monk Shi Yongxin, former abbot of Shaolin Temple, local authorities announced on 16/11.

Shi Yongxin faces accusations of embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, and bribery, committed in his capacity as a non-state official. The Xinxiang city public security bureau is investigating his case.

Former Shaolin Temple abbot Shi Yongxin. Photo: *Reuters*

The former abbot was dismissed from his post, had his Buddhist title revoked, and faced investigation in July after a series of accusations emerged. He was suspected of misappropriating public funds and temple assets, engaging in illicit relationships with multiple women, and fathering illegitimate children.

Shi Yongxin, 60 years old, became abbot of Shaolin Temple in 1999. In the decades that followed, he expanded research and promoted Shaolin martial arts globally. He earned the moniker "CEO monk" for establishing dozens of companies. The Shaolin Temple's business ventures expanded into culture, cuisine, pharmaceuticals, and apparel. However, Shi Yongxin also faced criticism for commercializing Buddhism.

Following the scandals involving Shi Yongxin, the Buddhist Association of China criticized his conduct, stating it was "extremely egregious, seriously damaging the reputation of the Buddhist community and the image of monks."

Shaolin Temple, built in 495, is considered the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and the origin of Shaolin martial arts. The site is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site.

Ngoc Anh (According to Xinhua, AFP)