A Thai diamond thief, responsible for a decline in ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand more than 25 years ago, has entered the monkhood, to repent for the robbery which he says "cursed" his life.
In 1989 Kriengkrai Techamong stole more than $US20 million ($A26.50 million) worth of diamonds and gems from Prince Faisal bin Fahd's residence in Saudi Arabia where he worked as a janitor.
Local television showed Kriengkrai dressed in traditional monk attire and receiving alms and blessings from his family and friends.
Kriengkrai spent two years in jail for the incident after a high-profile investigation by Thai police.
The theft and subsequent investigation by Thai police has strained Saudi-Thai relations to the present day.
Saudi Arabia said that the diamonds returned by Thai policemen after Kriengkrai's arrest were mostly counterfeit and accused senior police officials of keeping some of the valuables, including the most famous gem known as the Blue Diamond.
Three Saudi diplomats tasked with investigating the robbery were murdered in Bangkok.
A fourth Saudi businessman sent by Riyadh was later declared missing.
Saudi Arabia has not sent an ambassador to Thailand since the incident.
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