Reform UK has called on the Metropolitan Police to re-investigate an attempted robbery of adviser George Cottrell, an aide to Nigel Farage, following a series of incidents including the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Cottrell was attacked outside his London home in April, just days after Farage revealed his own house had been firebombed.
The timing of the assault on Cottrell, which was previously reported without identifying him, has raised suspicions within Reform UK that it may be connected to what the party describes as "hate-fuelled attacks" that culminated in Widdecombe's death in July. Cottrell was reportedly "jumped" outside his Chelsea property in the early hours, recalling being grabbed by blue latex gloves as he fled on foot.
While the incident involving Cottrell was initially treated as a standalone crime, heightened security concerns within the party have prompted calls for the case to be reopened. Reform aides also pointed to a Tatler profile from the previous August that mentioned Farage was "often" at Cottrell's west London house, potentially making it a target for those wishing to harm the party leader.
The Metropolitan Police stated that the case remains closed, as "extensive enquiries" had been carried out without identifying suspects. The police indicated the case could be reopened if further information comes to light.
However, a Reform UK source suggested that the police should reconsider the assault on Cottrell, particularly after announcing a re-investigation into the firebombing of Farage's home. "In the current climate, it would seem strange to dismiss the possibility of a link between the incident involving George, the firebombing of Nigel's house and murder of Ann Widdecombe," the source said. "The police must keep an open mind, even if means re-opening George's case."
Counter-terrorism police have confirmed they are reopening their investigation into the firebombing of Farage's property last year. Farage described the incident as an "outright arson attempt," noting he was not home at the time of the attack but discovered the damage upon his return. A spokesperson for Counter-Terrorism Police confirmed that the investigation into Widdecombe's murder is ongoing.