Counter terrorism officers are now investigating the killing of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe as a suspected politically motivated terrorist attack. The investigation was escalated after the discovery of Russian communist literature and other items reflecting political ideology at the home of the 28-year-old suspect, who was arrested in Rotherham.
This development marks a shift from the initial assessment by Devon and Cornwall Police, who had stated there was no link to terrorism. Investigators are reportedly examining whether the attack was premeditated and targeted Widdecombe, who was a prominent figure for Reform UK, due to her political views. Authorities are considering the possibility that the suspect, described as a self-radicalised loner, may have viewed the 78-year-old as an accessible target compared to more high-profile politicians who have security.
Reform UK has criticized the initial police response, suggesting the public was misled by early statements ruling out terrorism or political motivation. Senior officers are facing pressure to explain why these avenues were publicly dismissed.
Initially, police focused on a burglary theory after Widdecombe's body was discovered at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, despite no items being reported stolen from the property. The suspect, who is not named by the Mail, was arrested on Saturday night, more than 270 miles away from the crime scene.
While counter terrorism police are probing a potential targeting based on Widdecombe's well-known political stances, including her opposition to abortion and gay rights, they do not believe there is evidence of hostile state involvement. The suspect was not known to the government's deradicalisation program, Prevent, and inquiries into his mental health are ongoing.
Authorities believe the murder, which occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, may have been premeditated. The suspect is not thought to have known Widdecombe. CCTV footage reportedly shows a figure leaving the suspect's Rotherham property shortly before 8 a.m. on Wednesday, appearing to carry a wooden stick.
Widdecombe, who lived alone, was last seen on a television program around 8 a.m. on Wednesday and was scheduled to appear on another show that afternoon, but became unresponsive. Her gardener found her body nearly 24 hours after the estimated time of the attack.
Devon and Cornwall Police initially stated the incident was not being treated as terrorism or politically motivated. However, the investigation was subsequently transferred to Counterterrorism Policing South East, which announced the suspect's re-arrest on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism.
The case has drawn parallels to the murders of MPs David Amess and Jo Cox, raising concerns about the safety of public figures. The suspect is the son of a teaching assistant, and relatives have indicated he had become more reclusive following his father's death last year.