BEIJING: Chinese authorities are investigating the head of the temple where kung fu was born over alleged embezzlement and other misconduct, the monastery said. Abbot Shi Yongxin, known as the “CEO monk” for establishing dozens of companies abroad, is suspected of “embezzling project funds and temple assets,” the Shaolin Temple said in a statement on WeChat Sunday. It said Shi had “seriously violated Buddhist precepts,” including by allegedly engaging in “improper relationships” with multiple women. “Multiple departments” were conducting a joint investigation, the temple said.

Shi Yongxin is suspected of criminal offences, embezzling project funds and temple assets, statement released on temple website says.

Temple accuses Shi Yongxin of embezzling project funds and temple assets, seriously violating Buddhist precepts and of sexual misconduct.