Incheon Police Book 114 During Election Period; Smear Campaigns Most Prevalent

The Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency apprehended 114 individuals for election-related offenses during the 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections. Of these, 2 have been transferred to the prosecution, and 104 are currently under investigation. The remaining 8 cases were closed without referral or other disposition.

By type of election crime, smear campaigns (black propaganda) accounted for the largest number with 49 cases (43%), followed by election violence with 20 cases (17.5%), bribery with 11 cases (9.6%), and vandalism of banners and posters with 10 cases (8.7%). This also included 3 cases (2.6%) of pre-election campaigning and 2 cases (1.7%) involving public officials' interference in elections. Smear campaigns were conducted online (including SNS) in 29 cases and offline in 20 cases.

The most common source of investigative leads was complaints and accusations, totaling 75 cases (65.8%). This was followed by reports and petitions with 26 cases (22.8%), referrals and investigations requested by the election commission with 8 cases (7%), and intelligence and self-initiated findings with 5 cases (4.4%). The police plan to conclude all election-related cases before the statute of limitations expires on December 3rd.