Police launch electoral fraud probe in Tower Hamlets

Police have launched an investigation into alleged electoral fraud in a London borough.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police were alerted by the Electoral Commission last week about potential fraudulent registration of voters in Tower Hamlets.

A further allegation concerning a recent by-election in the east London borough is also being investigated.

A Met spokesman said: "On the afternoon of Thursday, 26 April the MPS (Metropolitan Police Service) received an allegation from the Electoral Commission relating to potential fraudulent registration of voters in Tower Hamlets.

"We are currently investigating this allegation plus a further allegation of offences linked to a recent by-election in Tower Hamlets received on Saturday, 28 April.

"All allegations of electoral fraud are assessed, and where appropriate, thoroughly investigated by officers from MPS Specialist Operations, in close liaison with local authorities, the CPS and other relevant agencies. If there is sufficient evidence, a prosecution will be mounted."

Police are appealing to anyone with information regarding suspected electoral fraud or irregularities to report concerns to their local police or local authority.

PA