Reform UK has been rocked by an extraordinary act of alleged sabotage targeting Nigel Farage's inner circle, throwing the party's election campaign into disarray just weeks before voters go to the polls.
George Cottrell, Farage's right-hand man and parliamentary candidate for Clacton, discovered his campaign vehicle had been deliberately disabled after finding sugar poured into its fuel tank. The shocking incident has left senior party figures furious and pointing fingers at political opponents.
'Deliberate Act of Sabotage'
The discovery was made when Cottrell's branded campaign car suddenly became undriveable. Upon investigation, mechanics confirmed the vehicle had been tampered with in what appears to be a calculated attempt to disrupt Reform UK's election efforts in the critical constituency.
'This wasn't accidental damage - this was a deliberate act of political sabotage,' a senior Reform source told The Mirror. 'Someone clearly wanted to take our campaign vehicle off the road during the most important period of the election.'
Campaign in Crisis
The incident couldn't have come at a worse time for Farage's party, which has been gaining momentum in recent polls. With the Clacton seat being a key battleground and Farage's own political future potentially at stake, the loss of a crucial campaign vehicle represents a significant blow to their ground operations.
Cottrell, who serves as Farage's head of security and close aide, now faces the additional challenge of continuing his campaign without reliable transport in the sprawling coastal constituency.
Political Motives Suspected
While no individual or group has claimed responsibility, Reform UK insiders are convinced the sabotage was politically motivated. The timing and method suggest someone with knowledge of campaign operations targeted the vehicle specifically to hinder their election efforts.
'This goes beyond ordinary vandalism,' another party insider commented. 'Pouring sugar into a fuel tank requires planning and intent. Someone wanted to ensure that vehicle wouldn't be used again during this campaign.'
Broader Implications
The incident raises serious questions about the intensity of political competition in what has become one of the most watched constituencies in the country. With Farage himself making multiple appearances in Clacton, the sabotage suggests tensions are running high as election day approaches.
Local police have been informed of the incident, though it remains unclear whether a formal investigation has been launched. The damage to the vehicle is estimated to run into thousands of pounds, with the repair timeline threatening to overlap with crucial final campaign days.
As Reform UK scrambles to maintain its campaign momentum, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes and intense pressures characterizing this unprecedented general election campaign.
