Phayao Election Fraud Probe: Polling Official Accused of Ballot Tampering

PHAYAO — On 8 February 2026, the Phayao Provincial Election Commission Office reported an alleged attempt by a polling station official to cast seven fraudulent ballot papers in the Mueang Phayao district. A police complaint has been filed at Mueang Phayao Police Station. Officials confirmed that no ballots were ultimately placed in the ballot box, as the incident was detected in time by the presiding polling officer. Preliminary information suggests the polling official claimed to have been hired by a political party to carry out the act. Authorities suspect similar incidents may have occurred at other polling stations and have launched a full investigation. The incident occurred in Constituency 1, Polling Station No. 6, Village No. 4, Tha Wang Thong subdistrict. The official allegedly impersonated voters, prepared seven marked ballots, and was about to insert them when the presiding officer intervened and detained the individual. The suspect was taken to the local police station, with evidence including an envelope containing cash. The polling station official reportedly admitted to the act, stating it was done in exchange for payment from a political party.