Five held in Tameside election fraud investigation

Five people were arrested on suspicion of fraud offences in Tameside, Greater Manchester, as part of an investigation into how candidates were put forward for a local election. The four men and one woman, aged 23 to 47, were arrested at addresses within the borough earlier. Police received reports of concerns about candidates in the St Peter’s ward in the days before and after the election on 7 May. After initial enquiries, a full investigation was launched into allegations. The investigation focuses on whether the candidate nomination and representation process followed relevant legislation and electoral procedures. Police are working with the Electoral Commission and local partners and will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

"In the days leading up to and following the election on 7 May we received reports surrounding concerns about candidates within the St Peter's ward. Following initial enquiries last week, we have launched a full investigation into the allegations."

"The work is specifically investigating the process of how candidates were put forward and represented in the ward, and if this adhered to the relevant legislation and electoral procedures."

"We are working closely with the Electoral Commission and local partners as part of our enquiries. We will provide further updates as we progress our investigation further."

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