Three arrested on suspicion of inciting others to cast invalid vote at district election

A couple and a woman were arrested on Sunday for allegedly inciting others to cast invalid votes at the District Council election.

The couple, both aged 41, left comments on a social media platform to incite others to put three or more ticks on their ballot papers, according to the ICAC.

Officers searched their home and seized their mobile phones. The couple is being detained for investigation.

As for the other arrestee, aged 51, she has allegedly reposted an article on an online social media platform that incited others to boycott the election by not voting.

She also alleged calling on others to write their names and identity card numbers on the ballot papers, rendering them invalid. 

Investigation revealed that the post was initially published by disqualified and former District Councillor Leos Lee Man-ho on his social media page during the election period. As Lee had already left Hong Kong, the ICAC would apply to the court for a warrant for his arrest.

ICAC reminds the public that inciting others to cast invalid votes at an election may contravene the Elections (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance. The maximum penalty for the offense is three years imprisonment and a fine of HK$200,000. 

It also urges the public to abide by the law and not engage in illegal appeals or repost any unlawful content to uphold a fair and clean election.

(Updated at 7.05 pm)