The investigation into allegations of treason by Unified Justice Party members expanded on Tuesday, with the National Intelligence Service raiding the home and office of Paju City Councilor Ahn So-hee.

As with UPP Rep. Lee Seok-ki and Ahns husband Lee Young-choon, the city councilor is suspected of violating the National Security Act and plotting a rebellion. The two Lees were taken into custody earlier this month. According to reports, the only item confiscated in the raid was Ahn’s mobile phone.

Rep. Lee is alleged to have formed an underground group known as the Revolutionary Organization, told its members to secure firearms and laid out plans to attack infrastructure facilities. Since the investigation began earlier this month, it has been alleged that the organization counts a number of civil service and UPP officials among its members.

For its part the UPP accused the NIS of conducting the search without due cause in an attempt to sway public opinion.

“Today’s raid doesn’t appear to be aimed at securing evidence.

“The purpose of the search is to divert the people’s attention from the NIS’ criminal interference in the presidential election,” said UPP spokesperson Rep. Kim Jae-yeon, who is also under investigation in connection with the case.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)