Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) is now leading the investigation into the death of former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home in Devon last week. The investigation has shifted significantly, with police now treating the murder as terrorism.
A 28-year-old man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday. However, he has since been re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. This development follows new information and evidence that prompted specialist officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) to take over the inquiry from Devon and Cornwall Police.
Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, stated that multiple lines of inquiry are being pursued to determine the motivation behind the attack. He emphasized the priority is to progress the investigation swiftly with all available capabilities and appealed to the public and media for continued support.
Officers were called to Ms. Widdecombe's residence in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday, July 9, at approximately 11:40 a.m. She was discovered inside with serious injuries, and it is estimated she may have been deceased for around 24 hours. Until the recent re-arrest, police had not indicated any evidence suggesting a politically motivated killing.