What began as a murder investigation has taken a dramatic turn after police uncovered new evidence, leading counter-terrorism officers to take charge. Authorities say they are now investigating whether the killing of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe was linked to terrorism.
The investigation into the death of former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe has entered a new phase after British police confirmed that counter-terrorism officers are now leading the case.
The decision came after investigators uncovered what they described as “new information and evidence” during the early stages of the inquiry.
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, who was initially arrested on suspicion of murder, has now been re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Police say they are working urgently to determine whether the attack was motivated by extremist beliefs or another form of terrorism.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack,” said Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing.
Taylor added that specialist counter-terrorism officers are now using every available resource to move the investigation forward.
“Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.”
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday after suffering serious injuries. Her death shocked Britain’s political community and triggered a nationwide police search that ended with the suspect’s arrest on Saturday evening.
According to Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), evidence gathered since the arrest significantly changed the direction of the investigation.
The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said she would update Parliament on the latest developments.
“My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her,” she wrote on X.
Investigators are also examining CCTV footage that appears to show the suspect leaving a property in Rotherham early on Wednesday morning.
The footage reportedly shows the man, dressed in a white shirt and shorts, getting into a red vehicle outside a house at about 07:51. A long object can also be seen appearing to protrude from his shorts pocket.
SEE ALSO: 26 Year Old Man Arrested for Murder After Ann Widdecombe Found Dead
Police believe the suspect later travelled the roughly 270-mile journey from South Yorkshire to Widdecombe’s home in Devon.
On Sunday, forensic officers continued examining a property in Rotherham believed to be linked to the investigation. Armed police surrounded the address while specialists searched the scene.
One neighbour described the dramatic arrest.
“I was making some food in the kitchen and looked out the window. There was loads of banging, and there was armed police in the pathway. They just went into the house and pulled him out.”
Another resident said officers later removed a red car from the property.
The latest development marks a significant shift from the initial police assessment. Earlier on Sunday, Devon and Cornwall Police had said there was “nothing to suggest” the attack was politically motivated, although officers stressed they were keeping an open mind.
Police have already received more than 120 pieces of information from members of the public following appeals for witnesses.
Officers also confirmed that an increased police presence will remain in the local community while enquiries continue.
Widdecombe was one of Britain’s best-known political figures. She served as Conservative MP for Maidstone for more than two decades and held ministerial positions in John Major’s government before later joining the Brexit Party and eventually Reform UK.
Following her death, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum.
Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice described her as “an absolute colossus” after attending a memorial gathering in Haytor Vale.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called her death “a significant loss”, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch remembered her as “a very fun and feisty woman”.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage also paid tribute, describing Widdecombe as “a remarkable individual” and “the fiercest defender of free speech”.
As investigators continue piecing together what happened, police are urging anyone with information that could assist the inquiry to come forward.
