Police said on Tuesday they first detected a suspicious account in September last year that repeatedly published messages deemed to have seditious intent, including inciting hatred and contempt against the government, judiciary and law enforcement agencies.

Superintendent Chan On-ming of the National Security Department said the account encouraged others not to vote or to submit blank ballots recently.

After investigation, police identified a 68‑year‑old local man as the account administrator.

He was arrested in North Point on Tuesday under the Elections (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. Several digital devices were seized.

The Post learned that the retiree allegedly used metaphorical language in his posts to incite others not to vote or to cast blank ballots.