Five arrested in Tameside election fraud investigation

Five people have been arrested on suspicion of fraud offences as part of an investigation into the process of how candidates were put forward for the local election in Tameside, Greater Manchester.

The four men and a woman, aged between 23 and 47, were held at addresses in the borough earlier on Thursday, police said.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "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 spokesman continued: "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."

During the recent elections across England and Wales, Labour lost control of Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council, which elects a third of its councillors over four years.

However, in St Peter's ward, the party won with 1,352 votes, with an independent candidate receiving 1,175 and Reform UK with 864.

A spokesperson for the Electoral Commission said: "We are aware of an investigation by Greater Manchester Police into alleged offences committed in the lead up to the local elections in Tameside.

"It is important voters can have confidence in the integrity of the electoral process.

"We will continue to provide advice and guidance on electoral law as required. We will not comment further while the investigation is ongoing."