The investigation into the death of former minister Ann Widdecombe has been taken over by Counter Terrorism Police after detectives received “new information and evidence”.
Ms Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and later Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, at around 11.40am on Thursday after suffering serious injuries.
A 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening and remains in police custody.
Counter Terrorism Policing (CPT) South East confirmed it was now leading the investigation, saying the decision followed the discovery of further information.
CTP said in a statement today: “A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday 11 July.
“New information and evidence have come to light during what has been a dynamic and complex investigation and as a result, Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) is now leading the investigation.
“The man in custody has since been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.”
The move marks a significant escalation in the inquiry as detectives continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the death of the 77-year-old politician.
Police had previously said they were not treating the killing as politically motivated or terror-related, but stressed investigators remained open-minded about the possible motive.
Ms Widdecombe was a prominent figure in British politics for decades, serving as a Conservative MP before becoming a leading voice for the Brexit Party and later Reform UK.
The development is expected to increase scrutiny around the investigation as officers continue gathering evidence and questioning the arrested man.
The Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood wrote on X: “This morning I have spoken to the head of @TerrorismPolice.
Following new information and evidence, they are now leading on the investigation into the horrific murder of Ann Widdecombe. The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack. I will be updating the House further this afternoon.
My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her.
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