Joint Investigation Concludes Extensive Search for Ballot Shortage Evidence
A joint investigation team has concluded a comprehensive search, lasting approximately 13 hours, into allegations surrounding ballot shortages during the June 3rd local elections. The investigation targeted the Central Election Commission and related bodies, focusing on uncovering the truth behind the reported discrepancies.
In an official statement released today, the investigative team announced the completion of their search and seizure operations. “The joint investigation, established to clarify the facts regarding alleged infringements on citizen suffrage, has concluded its search and seizure operations, excluding the digital information stored on the Central Election Commission’s servers,” the statement read. “We will expedite the necessary investigations, including the analysis of seized evidence and interviews with involved parties, to rigorously determine the facts of the situation.”
Scope of the Investigation
The operation, which commenced today in Gwacheon, encompassed searches at seven locations. These included the Central Election Commission, the Seoul Election Commission, and election commissions in Songpa, Seocho, Gangnam, Gwangjin, and Dongjak-gu. These areas were specifically targeted due to reports of ballot shortages during the elections.
Investigators are examining potential violations of the Public Official Election Act, dereliction of duty, and professional misconduct, including collusion and bribery. The search involved approximately three prosecutors, over ten investigative officers, and more than one hundred police personnel.
Key Figures Under Scrutiny
The investigation has identified a total of ten individuals as persons of interest. These include former Central Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak and former Secretary-General Heo Cheol-hoon, along with chairpersons and secretaries of various regional election commissions.
Materials seized are reported to include ballot paper printing plans, meeting minutes, budget proposals, and other files related to the local elections. These were reportedly secured from the office of the Seoul Election Commission in Jongno-gu.
Furthermore, election logs detailing the storage location, quantity, and remaining balance of ballot papers on the day of the election were reportedly obtained from the Gangnam Election Commission. The investigative team also conducted forensic analysis on computer files belonging to officials and staff at regional election commissions, focusing on data relevant to the June 3rd local elections.
